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The 20 greatest yacht rock songs ever, ranked

27 July 2022, 17:50

By Tom Eames

We can picture it now: lounging on a swish boat as it bobs along the water, sipping cocktails and improving our tan. Oh, and it's the 1980s.

There's only one style of music that goes with this image: Yacht rock.

What is Yacht Rock?

Also known as the West Coast Sound or adult-oriented rock, it's a style of soft rock from between the late 1970s and early 1980s that featured elements of smooth soul, smooth jazz, R&B, funk, rock and disco.

• The 40 greatest disco songs ever, ranked
• The 10 greatest and smoothest ever sax solos, ranked

Although its name has been used in a negative way, to us it's an amazing genre that makes us feel like we're in an episode of Miami Vice wearing shoulder pads and massive sunglasses.

Here are the very best songs that could be placed in this genre:

Player - 'Baby Come Back'

Player - Baby Come Back

Not the reggae classic of the same name, this 1977 track was Player's biggest hit.

After Player disbanded, singer Peter Beckett joined Australia's Little River Band, and he also wrote 'Twist of Fate' for Olivia Newton-John and 'After All This Time' for Kenny Rogers.

Steely Dan - 'FM'

It's tough just choosing one Steely Dan song for this list, but we've gone for this banger.

Used as the theme tune for the 1978 movie of the same name, the song is jazz-rock track, though its lyrics took a disapproving look at the genre as a whole, which was in total contrast to the film's celebration of it. Still, sounds great guys!

Bobby Goldsboro - 'Summer (The First Time)'

Bobby Goldsboro - Summer (The First Time)

A bit of a questionable subject matter, this ballad was about a 17-year-old boy’s first sexual experience with a 31-year-old woman at the beach.

But using a repeating piano riff, 12-string guitar, and an orchestral string arrangement, this song just screams yacht rock and all that is great about it.

Kenny Loggins - 'Heart to Heart'

Kenny Loggins - Heart To Heart (Official Music Video)

If Michael McDonald is the king of yacht rock, then Kenny Loggins is his trusted advisor and heir to the throne.

This track was co-written with Michael, and also features him on backing vocals. The song is about how most relationships do not stand the test of time, yet some are able to do so.

Airplay - 'Nothing You Can Do About It'

Nothin' You Can Do About It

You might not remember US band Airplay, but they did have their moment on the yacht.

Consisting of David Foster (who also co-wrote the Kenny Loggins song above), Jay Graydon and the brilliantly-named Tommy Funderburk, this tune was a cover of a Manhattan Transfer song, and was a minor hit in 1981.

Boz Scaggs - 'Lowdown'

Boz Scaggs - Lowdown (Official Audio)

We've moved slightly into smooth jazz territory with this track, which is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

The song was co-written by David Paich, who would go on to form Toto along with the song's keyboardist David Paich, session bassist David Hungate, and drummer Jeff Porcaro.

Steve Winwood - 'Valerie'

Steve Winwood - Valerie (Official Video)

This song is probably as far as you can get into pop rock without totally leaving the yacht rock dock.

Legendary singer-songwriter Winwood recorded this gong about a man reminiscing about a lost love he hopes to find again someday.

Eric Prydz later sampled it in 2004 for the house number one track ‘Call on Me’, and presented it to Winwood, who was so impressed he re-recorded the vocals to better fit the track.

Toto - 'Rosanna'

Toto - Rosanna (Official HD Video)

We almost picked 'Africa' , but we reckon this tune just about pips it in the yacht rock game.

Written by David Paich, he has said that the song is based on numerous girls he had known.

As a joke, the band members initially played along with the common assumption that the song was based on actress Rosanna Arquette, who was dating Toto keyboard player Steve Porcaro at the time and coincidentally had the same name.

Chicago - 'Hard to Say I'm Sorry'

Chicago - Hard To Say I'm Sorry (Official Music Video)

Chicago began moving away from their horn-driven soft rock sound with their early 1980s output, including this synthesizer-filled power ballad.

• The 10 greatest Chicago songs, ranked

The album version segued into a more traditional Chicago upbeat track titled ‘Get Away’, but most radio stations at the time opted to fade out the song before it kicked in. Three members of Toto played on the track. Those guys are yacht rock kings!

Michael Jackson - 'Human Nature'

Michael Jackson - Human Nature (Audio)

A few non-rock artists almost made this list ( George Michael 's 'Careless Whisper' and Spandau Ballet 's 'True' are almost examples, but not quite), yet a big chunk of Thriller heavily relied on the yacht rock sound.

Michael Jackson proved just how popular the genre could get with several songs on the album, but 'Human Nature' is the finest example.

The Doobie Brothers - 'What a Fool Believes'

The Doobie Brothers - What A Fool Believes (Official Music Video)

Possibly THE ultimate yacht rock song on the rock end of the spectrum, and it's that man Michael McDonald.

Written by McDonald and Kenny Loggins, this was one of the few non-disco hits in America in the first eight months of 1979.

The song tells the story of a man who is reunited with an old love interest and attempts to rekindle a romantic relationship with her before discovering that one never really existed.

Michael Jackson once claimed he contributed at least one backing track to the original recording, but was not credited for having done so. This was later denied by the band.

Christopher Cross - 'Sailing'

Christopher Cross - Sailing (Official Audio)

We're not putting this in here just because it's called 'Sailing', it's also one of the ultimate examples of the genre.

Christopher Cross reached number one in the US in 1980, and VH1 later named it the most "softsational soft rock" song of all time.

Don Henley - 'The Boys of Summer'

The Boys Of Summer DON HENLEY(1984) OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Mike Campbell wrote the music to this track while working on Tom Petty’s Southern Accents album, but later gave it to Eagles singer Don Henley, who wrote the lyrics.

The song is about the passing of youth and entering middle age, and of a past relationship. It was covered twice in the early 2000s: as a trance track by DJ Sammy in 2002, and as a pop punk hit by The Ataris in 2003.

England Dan and John Cord Foley - 'I'd Really Love to See You Tonight'

England Dan & John Ford Coley - I'd Really Love To See You Tonight.avi

A big hit for this duo in 1976, it showcases the very best of the sock rock/AOR/yacht rock sound that the 1970s could offer.

Dan Seals is the younger brother of Jim Seals of Seals and Crofts fame. Which leads to...

Seals & Crofts - 'Summer Breeze'

Summer Breeze - Seals & Croft #1 Hit(1972)

Before The Isley Brothers recorded a slick cover, 'Summer Breeze' was an irresistible folk pop song by Seals & Crofts.

While mostly a folk song, its summer vibes and gorgeous melody make for a perfect yacht rock number.

Christopher Cross - 'Ride Like the Wind'

Ride Like The Wind Promo Video 1980 Christopher Cross

If Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins are in charge of the yacht rock ship, then Christopher Cross has to be captain, right? Cabin boy? Something anyway.

The singer was arguably the biggest success story of the relatively short-lived yacht rock era, and this one still sounds incredible.

Eagles - 'I Can't Tell You Why'

The eagles - I can't tell you why (AUDIO VINYL)

Many Eagles tunes could be classed as yacht rock, but we reckon their finest example comes from this track from their The Long Run album in 1979.

Don Henley described the song as "straight Al Green", and that Glenn Frey, an R&B fan, was responsible for the R&B feel of the song. Frey said to co-writer Timothy B Schmit: "You could sing like Smokey Robinson . Let’s not do a Richie Furay, Poco-sounding song. Let’s do an R&B song."

Gerry Rafferty - 'Baker Street'

Gerry Rafferty - Baker Street (Official Video)

Gerry Rafferty probably didn't realise he was creating one of the greatest yacht rock songs of all time when he wrote this, but boy did he.

• The Story of... 'Baker Street'

With the right blend of rock and pop and the use of the iconic saxophone solo, you can't not call this yacht rock at its finest.

Michael McDonald - 'Sweet Freedom'

Michael McDonald - Sweet Freedom (1986)

If you wanted to name the king of yacht rock, you'd have to pick Michael McDonald . He could sing the phone book and it would sound silky smooth.

Possibly his greatest solo tune, it was used in the movie  Running Scared , and its music video featured actors Billy Crystal and Gregory Hines.

Hall & Oates - 'I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)'

Daryl Hall & John Oates - I Can't Go For That (No Can Do) (Official Video)

This duo knew how to make catchy hit after catchy hit. This R&B-tinged pop tune was co-written with Sara Allen (also the influence for their song 'Sara Smile').

• Hall and Oates' 10 best songs, ranked

John Oates has said that the song is actually about the music business. "That song is really about not being pushed around by big labels, managers, and agents and being told what to do, and being true to yourself creatively."

Not only was the song sampled in De La Soul's 'Say No Go' and Simply Red 's 'Home', but Michael Jackson also admitted that he lifted the bass line for 'Billie Jean'!

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Wedding Pro Hub

Yacht Rock Songs for a Chillin’ Vibes Wedding Playlist

As a reminder: Yacht Rock is a style of music commonly classified as soft rock from the 70s to the mid-80s. You will hear everything from smooth soul, smooth jazz, R&B, and disco.

You can play songs that are the pure definition of yacht rock by artists and musicians like Steely Dan, The Doobie Brothers, and Kenny Loggins. However, you will also find a few Nyacht songs (songs that have sometimes been classified as yacht rock but do not fit the definition).

It’s up to you as we are trying to set a mood for a great chill playlist for any event or party.

Stream Yacht Rock Playlist

My Wedding Songs is a reader-supported website. As an Amazon Associate, we earn revenue from qualifying purchases. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission but also support the artists.

Listen to your favorite songs on streaming services!

Yacht Rock Songs for Weddings

Listed alphabetically by artist and then song title.

Ace – How Long Released in 1975 on the album Five-A-Side

Most Meaningful Lyrics:

“And you said you was never intending / To break up our scene this way / But there ain’t any use in pretending / It could happen to us any day”

Al Jarreau – We’re In This Love Together Released in 1981 on the album Breakin’ Away

“We got the kind that lasts forever / We’re in this love together / We got a kind that will last forever and evermore”

Ambrosia – Biggest Part Of Me Released in 1980 on the album One Eighty

“Together) We are gonna stay together / (Forever) For me there’s nothing better / You’re the biggest part of me”

Ambrosia – How Much I Feel Released in 1978 on the album Life Beyond L.A.

“How’s your life been goin’ on / I’ve got a wife now / Years we’ve been goin’ strong”

Atlantic Rhythm Section – So Into You Released in 1976 on the album A Rock and Roll Alternative

“From your head to your toe / Gonna love you all over, over and over / Me into you, you into me, me into you”

Bill Withers – Lovely Day Released in 1977 on the album Menagerie

“Just one look at you / And I know it’s gonna be / A lovely day”

Bobby Caldwell – What You Won’t Do For Love Released in 1978 on the album Bobby Caldwell

“But then I only want the best, it’s true / I can’t believe the things I do for you / What you won’t do, do for love”

Boz Scaggs – Lowdown Released in 1976 on the album Silk Degrees

“Got to have a Jones for this, Jones for that / This runnin’ with the Joneses, boy, just ain’t where it’s at, no, no”

Captain & Tennille – Love Will Keep Us Together Released in 1975 on the album Love Will Keep Us Together

“I will be there to share forever / Love will keep us together”

Christopher Cross – Ride Like the Wind Released in 1980 on the album Christopher Cross

“Lived nine lives / Gunned down ten / Gonna ride like the wind”

If you love this list you most likely like classic rock. Check out our list of classic rock love songs !

Christopher Cross – Sailing Released in 1980 on the album Christopher Cross

“Sailing / Takes me away to where I’ve always heard it could be / Just a dream and the wind to carry me / Soon I will be free”

Daryl Hall & John Oates – Kiss On My List Released in 1981 on the album Voices

“Because your kiss is on my list of the best things in life / Oh babe, because your kiss, your kiss is on my list”

David Pomeranz – On This Day Released in 2001 on the album On This Day

“Here I stand, take my hand / And I will honor every word that I say / On this day”

DeBarge – All This Love Released in 1982 on the album All This Love

“Say you really love me baby / Say you really love me, darlin’ / ‘Cause I really love you, baby”

Donald Fagen – I.G.Y. (What a Beautiful World) Released in 1982 on the album The Nightfly

“What a beautiful world this will be / What a glorious time to be free”

Doobie Brothers – What a Fool Believes Released in 1979 on the album Minute by Minute

“But what a fool believes, he sees / No wise man has the power to reason away / What seems to be”

Dr. Hook – Sexy Eyes Released in 1979 on the album Sometimes You Win

“Sexy eyes, moving ‘cross the floor, couldn’t want for more, sexy eyes / Sexy eyes, getting down with you, I wanna move with you, sexy eyes”

Earth, Wind & Fire – After the Love Has Gone Released in 1979 on the album I Am

“What used to be happy is sad / Somethin’ happened along the way / And yesterday was all we had”

George Benson – Give Me the Night Released in 1980 on the album Give Me the Night

“A little late romance / It’s a chain reaction / You’ll see the people of the world / Coming out to dance”

George Benson – Lady Love Me (One More Time) Released in 1983 on the album In Your Eyes

“Just let me love you one more time / Feel your heartbeat close to mine / Lady, love me all the time”

You might want to listen to a 1980s rock playlist .

James Ingram and Michael McDonald – Yah Mo B There Released in 1983 on the album It’s Your Night

“‘Cause it’s a long hard road that leads to a brighter day / Don’t let your heart grow cold, just reach out and call His name”

Kenny Loggins – Heart to Heart Released in 1982 on the album High Adventure

“Now that we’ve grown apart, oh no / Well, the only way to start / Is heart to heart”

Kenny Loggins – This Is It Released in 1979 on the album Keep the Fire

“Let ’em believe / Leave ’em behind / But keep me near in your heart / Know whatever you do, I’m here by your side”

Kenny Loggins and Stevie Nicks – Whenever I Call You “Friend” Released in 1978 on the album Nightwatch

“Whenever I call you friend / I believe I’ve come to understand / Everywhere we are you and I were meant to be / Forever and ever”

Larry Carlton – Room 335 Released in 1978 on the album Larry Carlton

This song is a guitar instrumental.

Lee Ritenour – Is It You Released in 1981 on the album Rit

“Are you somebody in love? / Show me what you’re doin’ and tell me who you are / Hey, I’m ready for love, for love”

Leon Ware – Slippin Away Released in 1982 on the album Leon Ware

“You ain’t gonna keep on slippin’ away / Somewhere in your mind, I know / You will see that I am on your side”

Lionel Richie – All Night Long (All Night) Released in 1983 on the album Can’t Slow Down

“People dancing all in the street / See the rhythm all in their feet / Life is good, wild, and sweet”

Lionel Richie – Running with the Night Released in 1983 on the album Can’t Slow Down

“We were running with the night / Playing in the shadows / Just you and I / ‘Til the morning light”

Little River Band – Reminiscing Released in 1978 on the album Sleeper Catcher

“I said to myself when we’re old / We’ll go dancing in the dark / Walking through the park and reminiscing”

Luther Vandross – Never Too Much Released in 1981 on the album Never Too Much

“Love is a gamble and I’m so glad that I’m winnin’ / We’ve come a long way and yet this is only the beginnin'”

Marc Jordan – Margarita Released in 1983 on the album A Hole In The Wall

“I step over the borderline / Margarita will you be mine / Oh you think that love’s a game”

Maxus – Keep a Light On Released in 1981 on the album Maxus

“Please keep a light on for me, yeah / ‘Cause tonight I can’t see / Another place that I’d rather be”

Michael Jackson – Human Nature Released in 1983 on the album Thriller

“See that girl / She knows I’m watching / She likes the way I stare”

Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney – The Girl Is Mine Released in 1982 on the album Thriller

“Well I love you endlessly / (Loving we will share) / So come and go with me / Two on the town”

Michael McDonald – I Gotta Try Released in 1982 on the album If That’s What It Takes

“Maybe there ain’t nothin’ left to say / But if our time’s really runnin’ out / Then this is no time to run away”

Michael McDonald – I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near) Released in 1982 on the album If That’s What It Takes

“I keep forgettin’ we’re not in love anymore / I keep forgettin’ things will never be the same again”

Michael Miglio – Never Gonna Let You Go Released in 1980 on the album Everytime It Rains

“Your lovin’ turns me on / My lonely days are gone / That’s why I’m never gonna let you go”

Nicolette Larson – Let Me Go, Love Released in 1979 on the album In the Nick of Time

“We shared in the fantasy of / Knowing this love in our lives / Is it ever what it seems to be / Oh and if it’s over / Let me go, love”

Olivia Newton-John – Magic Released in 1980 on the album Xanadu

“You won’t make a mistake / I’ll be guiding you / You have to believe we are magic”

Another song list to read: Most Iconic 1990s Rock Songs .

Pablo Cruise – Love Will Find A Way Released in 1978 on the album Worlds Away

“You’ll learn to find your love again / So keep your heart open / Cause love will find a way”

Pages – O.C.O.E. (Official Cat of the Eighties) Released in 1981 on the album Pages

“Rushin’ to the future and runnin’ from the past / Intent on getting higher / So knocked out, so real, a hopeless jag”

Patti Austin and James Ingram – Baby, Come To Me Released in 1982 on the album Every Home Should Have One

“Let me put my arms around you / This was meant to be / And I’m oh so glad I found you”

Paul Davis – Cool Night Released in 1981 on the album Cool Night

“It’s gonna be a cool night / Just let me hold you by the firelight / If it don’t feel right you can go”

Philip Bailey and Phil Collins – Easy Lover Released in 1984 on the album Chinese Wall

“Easy lover / She’ll get a hold on you believe it / Like no other / Before you know it you’ll be on your knees”

Player – Baby Come Back Released in 1977 on the album Player

“Baby come back, yeah, any kind of fool could see / There was something in everything about you”

Pointer Sisters – He’s So Shy Released in 1980 on the album Special Things

“Nothin’ has ever felt so right / And I’m so glad I took the time / That I had to take to make him mine”

Quincy Jones – One Hundred Ways Released in 1981 on the album The Dude

“Maybe she has it in her mind / That she’s just wasting her time / Ask her to stay / Find one hundred ways”

Ray Parker Jr. – A Woman Needs Love (Just Like You Do) Released in 1981 on the album A Woman Needs Love

“So, when you think you’ve fooled her / She just might be fooling you / Remember: if you can do it / She can, too”

Raydio – You Can’t Change That Released in 1979 on the album Rock On

“You’re the only one I love / And you can’t change that / You’re the only one I need”

Cocktail hour leads into the meal. See a list of good dinner party music to listen to .

Rickie Lee Jones – Chuck E’s In Love Released in 1979 on the album Rock On

“But that means that Chuck E.’s in love, my, my / Chuck E.’s in love, love, love, love”

Robbie Dupree – Steal Away Released in 1980 on the album Robbie Dupree

“I caught you glancing my way / And I know what you’re after (no second chances tonight) / Why don’t we steal away”

Roger Voudouris – Get Used To It Released in 1979 on the album Radio Dream

“Get used to it / ‘Cause I’ll be around / Yeah, ya better get used to / All my love, please”

Sanford-Townsend Band – Smoke From a Distant Fire Released in 1977 on the album Sanford-Townsend Band

“I know where you goin’ to I knew when you came home last night / ‘Cause your eyes had a mist from the smoke of a distant fire”

Smokey Robinson – Being With You Released in 1981 on the album Being with You

“I don’t care what they think / If you’re leaving / I’m gonna beg you to stay”

Steely Dan – Hey Nineteen Released in 1980 on the album Gaucho

“No, we can’t dance together (We can’t dance together) / No, we can’t talk at all / Please take me along when you slide on down”

Steely Dan – Peg Released in 1977 on the album Aja

“It sure looks good on you / And when you smile for the camera / I know I’ll love you better”

Steve Perry – Foolish Heart Released in 1984 on the album Street Talk

“Foolish heart, heed my warning / You’ve been wrong before / Don’t be wrong anymore”

The Imperials – Living Without Your Love Released in 1979 on the album One More Song for You

“‘Cause living without Your love / Was like not ever living or existing”

Timothy B. Schmit – Tell Me What You Dream Released in 1984 on the album Playin’ It Cool

“Is it someone else’s arms that hold you tight / Or darling, is it me / Tell me what you dream at night”

Next: 1970s rock music for a ceremony and reception .

Toto – Africa Released in 1982 on the album Toto IV

“It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you / There’s nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do”

Toto – Georgy Porgy Released in 1978 on the album Toto

“I’m not the only one that holds you / I never ever should have told you / You’re my only world”

Warren G ft. Nate Dogg – Regulate Released in 1994 on the album Above the Rim

“It was a clear black night, a clear white moon / Warren G was on the streets tryin’ to consume / Some skirts for the eve so I can get some funk”

Nyacht Rock Hits for Weddings

These are a list of songs that are commonly thought to be yacht rock songs but technically are not. If you have yacht rock enthusiasts, you may want to skip these. Otherwise, they are still great songs that fit the vibe.

10cc – I’m Not In Love Released in 1975 on the album The Original Soundtrack

“Don’t make a fuss / Don’t tell your friends about the two of us / I’m not in love”

Al Stewart – Time Passages Released in 1978 on the album Time Passages

“There’s something back here that you left behind / Oh time passages / Buy me a ticket on the last train home tonight”

America – You Can Do Magic Released in 1982 on the album View from the Ground

“You can do magic / You can have anything that you desire / Magic, and you know / You’re the one who can put out the fire”

Bertie Higgins – Key Largo Released in 1981 on the album Just Another Day in Paradise

“We had it all / Just like Bogie and Bacall / Starring in our old late, late show / Sailing away to Key Largo”

Billy Joel – Just the Way You Are Released in 1984 on the album The Stranger

“I said I love you, that’s forever / And this I promise from the heart / I couldn’t love you any better / I love you just the way you are”

Billy Ocean- Caribbean Queen (No More Love on the Run) Released in 1977 on the album Suddenly

“Oh girl, oh baby, it takes a little time / Then you can love again / But I ain’t got the time”

Climax Blues Band – Couldn’t Get It Right Released in 1976 on the album Gold Plated

“But, I couldn’t see the light, no, I couldn’t see the light / I kept on looking for a way to take me through the night / Couldn’t get it right”

Climax Blues Band – I Love You Released in 1981 on the album Flying the Flag

“Thank you, babe, for being a friend / And shining your light in my life / ‘Cause, oooh, I need you”

Daryl Hall & John Oates – Rich Girl Released in 1977 on the album Bigger Than Both of Us

“You’re a rich girl, and you’ve gone too far / ‘Cause you know it don’t matter anyway / You can rely on the old man’s money”

Daryl Hall & John Oates – Sara Smile Released in 1975 on the album Daryl Hall & John Oates

“And when you feel you can’t go on, I’ll come and hold you / It’s you and me forever”

Yacht rock is soft rock. You may want Up-tempo hits for a cocktail hour to set the mood .

Doobie Brothers – Listen to the Music Released in 1972 on the album Toulouse Street

“Meet me in the country for a day / We’ll be happy, and we’ll dance / Oh, we’re gonna dance our blues away”

Dr. Hook – When You’re In Love with a Beautiful Woman Released in 1979 on the album Pleasure and Pain

“You want to trust her / Then somebody hangs up when you answer the phone / When you’re in love with a beautiful woman / You go it alone”

England Dan & John Ford Coley – I’d Really Love to See You Tonight Released in 1976 on the album Nights Are Forever

“And I don’t wanna change your life / But there’s a warm wind blowing / The stars are out, and I’d really love to see you tonight”

Exile – Kiss You All Over Released in 1978 on the album Mixed Emotions

“You don’t have to say a thing / Just let me show how much / I love you, need you”

Firefall – You Are the Woman Released in 1976 on the album Firefall

“You are the woman that I’ve always dreamed of / I knew it from the start / I saw your face and that’s the last I’ve seen of my heart”

Fleetwood Mac – Dreams Released in 1977 on the album Rumours

“I keep my visions to myself / But it’s only me who wants to wrap around your dreams, and / Have you any dreams you’d like to sell, dreams of loneliness?”

Fleetwood Mac – Everywhere Released in 1987 on the album Tango in the Night

“We better make a start / You better make it soon / Before you break my heart”

Gary Wright – Love Is Alive Released in 1976 on the album The Dream Weaver

“I’ll try to keep it together / ‘Cause what I say may not happen the same way / Now could be forever”

Gerry Rafferty – Baker Street Released in 1978 on the album City to City

“When you wake up, it’s a new mornin’ / The sun is shinin’, it’s a new mornin’ / You’re goin’, you’re goin’ home”

Gino Vannelli – I Just Wanna Stop Released in 1978 on the album Brother to Brother

“The world ain’t right without you, babe / I just gotta stop / For your love”

Another themed cocktail hour: Boy Band playlist for a wedding reception .

Grover Washington Jr. & Bill Withers – Just The Two Of Us Released in 1981 on the album Winelight

“Building castles in the sky / Just the two of us / You and I”

Jackson Browne – Somebody’s Baby Released in 1982 on the album Fast Times at Ridgemont High Soundtrack

“She’s gonna be somebody’s only light / Gonna shine tonight / Yeah, she’s gonna be somebody’s baby tonight”

Little River Band – Cool Change Released in 1979 on the album First Under the Wire

“If there’s one thing in my life that’s missing / It’s the time that I spend alone / Sailing on the cool and bright clear water”

Manfred Mann’s Earth Band – Blinded by the Light Released in 1976 on the album The Roaring Silence

“Blinded by the light / Revved up like a deuce / Another runner in the night”

Melissa Manchester – Whenever I Call You Friend Released in 1979 on the album Melissa Manchester

“I’ve never seen such a beautiful sight / Sweet love flowing almost every night / I know forever we’ll be doing it right”

Michael Johnson – Bluer Than Blue Released in 1978 on the album The Dude

“You’re the only light this empty room has ever had / And life without you is gonna be / Bluer than blue”

Orleans – Dance With Me Released in 1975 on the album Orleans II

“The music is just starting / Night is calling, and I am falling / Dance with me”

Orleans – Still The One Released in 1976 on the album Waking and Dreaming

“You’re still the one that I love to touch / Still the one and I can’t get enough / We’re still having fun, and you’re still the one”

Pointer Sisters – Slow Hand Released in 1981 on the album Black & White

“Baby, believe me I understand / When it comes to love you want a slow hand”

Pure Prairie League – Let Me Love You Tonight Released in 1980 on the album Firin’ Up

“Let me love you tonight / There’s a million stars in the sky / Let me love you tonight / I’ll make everything alright”

Rufus and Chaka Khan – Ain’t Nobody Released in 1983 on the album Rickie Lee Jones

“You knew I could not resist / I needed someone / And now we’re flyin’ through the stars / I hope this night will last forever”

Rupert Holmes – Escape (The Pina Colada Song) Released in 1979 on the album Partners in Crime

“If you like makin’ love at midnight / In the dunes on the cape / Then I’m the love that you’ve looked for / Write to me and escape”

Seals & Crofts – Get Closer Released in 1976 on the album Seals and Crofts

“Darlin’, if you want me to be closer to you, get closer to me”

Steely Dan – Do It Again Released in 1972 on the album Can’t Buy a Thrill

“Then you love a little wild one / And she brings you only sorrow / All the time you know she’s smiling / You’ll be on your knees tomorrow”

Stephen Bishop – On and On Released in 1976 on the album Careless

“On and on / He just keeps on trying / And he smiles when he feels like crying”

The Alan Parsons Project – Eye in the Sky Released in 1982 on the album Eye in the Sky

“I am the eye in the sky / Looking at you / I can read your mind”

With over 7 hours of yacht rock songs to play, you can have your fill any need for background music. Whether you think the songs are Yacht or Nyacht, the songs will set a chill theme for any party.

Thank you to Camille “Rocky” Bourg, Jr. of Music by Request for helping us distinguish between real Yacht rock songs and Nyacht songs!

Do you have a favorite Yacht rock song? Please share your song below in the comments!

DJ, Author, Music Lover

Matthew Campbell is the founder/editor of My Wedding Songs from his experience as a wedding DJ. He is the author of two wedding planners: 'Wedding Songs Planner' and 'The Wedding Music Toolkit'. Matt is the host of the 'Wedding Songs Podcast'. He shares music inspiration in his weekly newsletter the 'Wedding MusicLetter'. His articles have been published on Rolling Stone, DJ Life Magazine, and DJ Times. Matt resides in the wedding capital of the world - Las Vegas.

The 25 Best Yacht Rock Songs Of All Time

Yacht Rock isn’t exactly a genre. It’s more a state of mind. It is the musical equivalent of a mid-afternoon mimosa nap in some nautical location—a cool breeze of lite-FM confection with the substance of a romance novel and the machismo of a Burt Reynolds mustache comb.

But what exactly is Yacht Rock?

Yacht Rock is ‘70s soft schlock about boats, love affairs, and one-night stands.

Typified by artists like Christopher Cross, Rupert Holmes, and Pablo Cruise, Yacht Rock is not only easy to mock, but it’s also deserving of the abuse. There’s a sensitive 70s male brand of chauvinism that permeates this material—like somehow because you could schnarf an 8-ball of cocaine and sail a boat into the sunset, your indulgences and marital infidelity were actually kind of sexy. Cheap pickup lines and beardly come-ons abound.

And yet, this stuff is irresistible on a slow summer day. It reeks of sunshine and laziness, and couldn’t we all use a little of both?

These are the 25 Best Yacht Rock Songs, in order. Zero suspense. (Sorry if that’s less fun for you).

If you would like to learn more about Yacht Rock without getting a sailing license, read on…

What are the qualifications for inclusion on our list?

So Yacht Rock refers to a type of soft rock, right? But there’s a ton of soft rock out there that doesn’t fit the bill. There’s no room on my boat for Barry Manilow. At the Copa? Sure. But not so much on my boat. So what makes a great yacht rock song exactly?

Ideally, one or more of these themes will be present:

• Finding the love of your life;
• Having a memorable one-night stand; or 
• Doing something nautical.

These features pretty much capture everything that’s great about this milieu. But there’s also an important cheese factor at play here. While Steely Dan, Hall & Oates, CSN, and the Doobie Brothers all made songs that might qualify for inclusion here, the artists themselves are–let’s just say it–too good to be considered Yacht Rock.

We’ll make sure to include them in our deluxe playlist at the article’s conclusion.

But in order for a song to be considered for our list, it must be at least slightly embarrassing. Case in point, the top song on our list…

1. “Escape (The Pina Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes

“The Pina Colada Song” is arguably the most perfect embodiment of yacht rock, fulfilling, as it does, all three of the qualifications cited above. Holmes sings about making love in the dunes, attempts to cheat on his wife, then ultimately, rediscovers that his “old lady” is actually the love he’s been searching for all along. That’s the holy trinity of Yacht Rock themes, all wrapped up in a breezy story of casual adultery. And at the turn of a new decade, listeners were feeling it. Released as a single in 1979, “Escape” stood at the top of the charts during the last week of the year. Falling to #2 in the new year, it returned to the top spot in the second week of 1980. This made it the first song to top the charts in two separate, consecutive decades. Fun fact: Rupert Holmes never drank a Pina Colada in his life. He just thought the lyric sounded right. Hard to argue that point.

2. “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl) by The Looking Glass

Formed at Rutgers University in 1969, Looking Glass topped the charts in 1972 with the tale of a lovelorn barmaid in a harbor town haunted by lonely sailors. It would be the band’s only hit. Lead singer Elliot Lurie would go on to a brief solo career before becoming head of the music department for the 20th Century Fox movie studio in the ’80s and ’90s. That means he was the musical supervisor for the soundtrack to Night at the Roxbury . Do with that information what you will. And with respect to “Brandy,” see the film Guardians of the Galaxy 2 for Kurt Russell’s surprisingly detailed treatise on its lyrical genius.

3. “Summer Breeze” by Seals and Crofts

The title track from the soft-rock duo’s breakout 1972 record, “Summer Breeze” is an incurable earworm, a bittersweet twilight dream that captures everything that’s right about Lite FM. From an album inhabited by Wrecking Crew vets and studio aces, “Summer Breeze” curls like smoke drifting lazily through an open window.

4. “Africa” by Toto

Toto singer David Paich had never been to Africa. The melody and refrain for this #1 hit from 1982 came to him fully formed as he watched a late night documentary about the plight of those living on the African continent. The lyrics touch on missionary work and describe the landscape as inspired by images from National Geographic , according to Paich’s own recollection. Putting aside its self-aware inauthenticity, “Africa” is an infectious, 8x platinum AOR monster.

5. “Reminiscing: by Little River Band

Released in the summer of 1978 and reaching up to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Reminiscing” was guitarist Graeham Goble ‘s nostalgic take on the swing band era. Not only is it the only Australian song ever to reach five million radio plays in the U.S., but rumor is that it was among the late John Lennon’s favorite songs.

6. “Drift Away” by Dobie Gray

Recorded originally by a country-swamp rocker named Jeffrey Kurtz, Dobie’s 1973 cover became his biggest hit, reaching #5 on the charts. Though not explicitly nautical, “Drift Away” captures the distinct sensation of cruising at sunset.

7. “Love Will Find a Way” by Pablo Cruise

Pablo Cruise may have the most “yachty” of all band names on our list. And “Love Will Find a Way” is sort of the musical equivalent of a ketch skipping along a glassy surface on a crisp summer dawn. Pablo Cruise was formed in San Francisco by expats from various mildly successful bands including Stoneground and It’s a Beautiful Day. And there is a certain slick professionalism to the proceedings here. Of course, Pablo Cruise was never a critic’s darling. Homer Simpson once accurately classified them as wuss rock. Still, they perfectly captured the white-folks-vacationing-in-the-Caribbean energy that was all the rage at the time. Love found a way to reach #6 on the Billboard charts, remaining in constant radio rotation during the red-hot summer of ’78.

8. “Ride Captain Ride” by Blues Image

Blues Image emerged from South Florida in the late ’60s and served as the house band for Miami’s vaunted Thee Image music venue upon its inception in 1968. This gave Blues Image the opportunity to open for ascendant headliners like Cream and the Grateful Dead. The association landed them a contract Atco Records. Their sophomore record Open yielded their one and only hit, a #4 in 1970 about a bunch of men who disappear into the mists of the San Francisco Bay in search of a hippie utopia.

9. “Eye in the Sky” by The Alan Parsons Project

This #3 hit from 1982 has nothing to do with sailing. But it’s infectiously smooth production sheen, layered synth, and dreamy vocals make it a perfect Lite FM gem–one cut from the stone that gave us yacht rock. The “Project” was actually a British duo–studio wizard Alan Parsons and singer Eric Woolfson. The title track from their sixth studio album is also their very best recording. It’s also often paired with the instrumental lead-in “Sirius,” a song famous in its own right for blaring over unnumbered sporting arena PA systems. If that tune doesn’t make you think of Michael Jordan, you probably didn’t live through the late 80s.

10. “Miracles” by Jefferson Starship

Marty Balin was a pioneer of the San Francisco scene, founding Jefferson Airplane in 1965 as the house band for his own legendary club–The Matrix. But in 1971, deeply shaken by the death of Janis Joplin, Balin quit his own band. Four years later, he was invited to rejoin his old mates on the already-launched Starship. He immediately contributed what would become the biggest hit by any Jeffersonian vessel. “Miracles” reached #3 in 1975. Gorgeous, elegant, and open, this is a complete anomaly in the Airplane-Starship catalogue. Listen closely for the NSFW lyrics that have often flown under the radar of some adorably innocent censors.

11. “Sad Eyes” by Robert John

In 1972, Robert John had a #3 hit with his cover of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” And yet, just before recording “Sad Eyes”, the Brooklyn-born singer was employed as a construction worker in Long Branch, New Jersey. By the summer of ’79, he would have a #1 hit. In fact, the charting success of “Sad Eyes” was part of a cultural backlash against the reign of disco. A wave of pop hits swept on to the charts, including this slick soft rock throwback. With his sweet falsetto and doo wop sensibility, Robert John knocked The Knack’s “My Sharona” from its 6-week stand atop the charts.

12. “Magnet and Steel” by Walter Egan

Before launching headlong into his music career, Walter Egan was one of the very first students to earn a fine arts degree from Georgetown, where he studied sculpture. The subject would figure into his biggest hit, a #8 easy listening smash from 1978. Featured on his second solo record, “Magnet and Steel” enjoys the presence of some heavy friends. Lindsey Buckingham produced, played guitar and sang backup harmonies with Stevie Nicks. By most accounts, Nicks was also a primary source of inspiration for the song.

13. “Lido Shuffle” by Boz Scaggs

Of course, not all yacht rock songs are about sailing on boats. Some are about missing boats. Boz Scaggs looks dejected on the cover of 1977’s Silk Degrees , but things turned out pretty well for him. This bouncy #11 hit is a classic rock mainstay today. The band you hear backing Boz–David Paich, Jeff Porcaro, and David Hungate–would go on to form the nucleus of Toto that very same year. Toto, as it happens, is essentially a recurring theme of the genre. Before rising to massive success in their own right, the members of Toto absolutely permeated rock radio in the 70s, laying down studio tracks with Steely Dan, Seals and Crofts, Michael McDonald, and more.

14. “What You Won’t Do for Love” by Bobby Caldwell

This smooth-as-silk tune reached #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 upon its 1978 release. It also reached #6 on the Hot Selling Soul Singles Chart. This is significant only because of Caldwell’s complexion. He was a white man signed to TK Records, a label most closely associated with disco acts like KC and the Sunshine Band. Catering to a largely Black audience, the label went to minor lengths to hide their new singer’s identity–dig the silhouetted figure on the cover of his own debut. Suffice it to say, once Caldwell hit the road, audiences discovered he was white. By then, they were already hooked on this perfect groove, which you might also recognize as a sample in 2Pac’s posthumous 1998 release, “Do For Love.”

15. “I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near)” by Michael McDonald

Technically, Michael McDonald’s “I Keep Forgettin’” is an adaptation of an earlier tune by the same name. In fact, the original “I Keep Forgettin” was conceived by the legendary songwriting duo Leiber and Stoller–best known for iconic staples like “Hound Dog”, “Kansas City”, “Poison Ivy” and much much more. The original recording is by Chuck Jackson and dates to 1962. But McDonald’s 1982 take is definitive. If that wasn’t already true upon its release and #4 peak position on the charts, certainly Warren G. and Nate Dogg cemented its status when they sampled McDonald on “Regulate”. Get the whole history on that brilliant 1994 time capsule here .

Oh and by the way, this tune also features most of the guys from Toto. I know, right? These dudes were everywhere.

16. “Baker Street” by Gerry Rafferty

To the casual listener, Gerry Rafferty’s name may sound vaguely familiar. Indeed, you may remember hearing it uttered in passing in the film Reservoir Dogs . In a key scene, the DJ (deadpan comedian Steven Wright) mentions that Rafferty formed half the duo known as Stealers Wheel, which recorded a “Dylanesque, pop, bubble-gum favorite from April of 1974” called “Stuck in the Middle With You.” In the same scene, Mr. Blonde (portrayed with sadistic glee by Michael Madsen), slices off a policeman’s ear. At any rate, this is a totally different song, and is actually Rafferty’s biggest hit. “Baker Street” is a tune that reeks of late nights, cocaine, and regret. Peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Baker Street” soared on wings of the decade’s most memorable sax riff. Raphael Ravenscroft’s performance would, in fact, lead to a mainstream revitalization of interest in the saxophone writ large.

17. “Wham Bam Shang-A-Lang” by Silver

There are several interesting things about Silver that have almost nothing to do with this song. First, bass guitarist and singer Tom Leadon was both the brother of Bernie Leadon from the Eagles and a member of Tom Petty’s pre-fame band, Mudcrutch. Second, the band’s keyboardist was Brent Mydland, who would go on to become the Grateful Dead’s longest tenured piano guy. Third, Silver put out their only record in 1976, and future Saturday Night Live standout Phil Harman designed the cover art. With all of that said, Arista executives felt that their first album lacked a single so they had country songwriter Rick Giles cook up this ridiculous, gooey concoction that I kind of love. Let’s say this one falls into the “so bad it’s good” category. Anyway, the song peaked at #16 on the charts. The band broke up in ’78, leading Mydland to accept the deadliest job in rock music. He defied the odds by playing with the Grateful Dead until an accidental drug overdose claimed his life in 1990.

18. “Biggest Part of Me” by Ambrosia

I admit, I’m kind of hard-pressed to make Ambrosia interesting. In fact, they were extremely prolific, and earned high regard in early ’70s prog rock circles. And in the 1990s, lead singer David Pack would actually be the musical director for both of Bill Clinton’s presidential inauguration concerts. But this Southern California combo is much better known to mainstream audiences for their top-down, hair-blowing-in-the-wind soft rock from the decade in between. Peaking at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1980, “Biggest Part of Me” is the group’s best-known tune–a seafoamy bit of blue-eyed soul served over a raw bar of smooth jazz and lite funk.

19. “Baby Come Back” by Player

Player released their self-titled debut album in 1977 and immediately shot up to #1 with “Baby Come Back.” Bandmates Peter Beckett and J.C. Crowley had both recently broken up with their girlfriends. They channeled their shared angst into this composition, a self-sorry guilty pleasure featuring former Steppenwolf member Wayne Cook on keys. Granted, Steppenwolf’s edgy disposition is nowhere to be found on this record, but it is pretty infectious in a late-summer-night, slightly-buzzed, clenched-fist sort of way. Player endured various lineup changes, but never returned to the heights of their first hit.

20. “On and On” by Stephen Bishop

Remember that scene in National Lampoon’s Animal House (1978) where there’s this dude in a turtleneck singing a super cloying folks song before John Belushi mercifully snatches away his guitar and smashes it to smithereens? That guy was Stephen Bishop, who was actually in the middle of enjoying considerable success with his 1976 debut album, Careless . “On and On” was the album’s biggest hit, a vaguely Caribbean soft-rocker that reached #11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in ’77. The gentle electric riffs you hear there are supplied by guitarist Andrew Gold–who wrote the theme song for the Golden Girls . (I freakin’ know you’re singing it right now).

21. “Chevy Van” by Sammy Johns

The classic tale of boy-meets-girls, bangs-her-in-his-van, and brags-to-his-buds, all with backing from the world famous Wrecking Crew studio team. In 1975, a lot of people super related to it. It sold over a million copies and reach #5 on the Billboard Hot 100. I can’t tell you this song is good. But I also can’t tell you I don’t like it.

22. “You Are the Woman” by Firefall

Firefall’s lead guitarist Jock Bartley perfectly captures this song’s impact, calling the band’s biggest hit “a singing version of [a] Hallmark card.” That feels right. The second single from Firefall’s 1976 self-titled debut was only a regional hit at first. But it was driven all the way to #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 on the strength of radio requests. As Bartley explained, “Every female between the ages of 18 and 24 wanted to be the woman portrayed in the song, and that caused their boyfriends and spouses to call radio stations and subsequently flood the airwaves with dedications of the song and the sentiment.”

23. “Sailing” by Christopher Cross

Arguably, “Sailing” is the single most emblematic song of the Yacht Rock genre. Its thematic relevance requires no explanation. But it’s worth noting that the song is inspired by true events. During a tough time in his youth, Cross was befriended by Al Glasscock. Serving as something of an older brother to Cross, Glasscock would take him sailing. He recalls in his biggest hit that this was a time of escape from the harsh realities of his real life. In 1979, Cross released his self-titled debut. In early 1980, “Sailing” became a #1 hit, landing Cross a hat-trick of Grammys–including recognition as best new artist. Though Cross and Glasscock would lose touch for more than 20 years, they were reunited during a 1995 episode of The Howard Stern Show . Cross subsequently mailed a copy of his platinum record to Glasscock.

24. “Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree

Apparently, this song was perceived as so blatant a ripoff of Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins’ “What a Fool Believes” that legal action was actually threatened. It never formulated. Instead, Robbie Dupree landed a #6 Billboard Hot 100 hit with the lead single from his self-titled 1980 debut. Critics hated it, but it was a dominant presence in the summer of 1980. It even earned Dupree a Grammy nomination for best new artist. He ultimately lost to the man just above–Christopher Cross.

25. “This is It” by Kenny Loggins

You didn’t think we’d get through this whole list without an actual Kenny Loggins tune. This song has the perfect pedigree, teaming Loggins and Michael McDonald on a 1979 composition that became the lead single off of Kenny Loggins’ Keep the Fire. Coming on the tail end of the ’70s, “This is It” felt positively omnipresent in the ’80s. I may be biased here. I grew up in Philadelphia, where a local television show by the same name adopted “This is It” as its theme song. But then, it did also reach #11 on the Billboard Hot 100.

And in that spirit…this is it, the end of our list.

But as usual, here’s a bonus playlist–an expanded voyage through the breezy, AOR waters of the mid-’70s to early ’80s.

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Feature: The 101 GREATEST YACHT ROCK SONGS OF ALL TIME for Your Summer Playlist - featuring Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Christopher Cross and Steely Dan

What Yacht Rock Classic Hit #1?

Yacht Rock is not for everyone. If you like your rock Cannibal Corpse intense or your hip hop extra Onyx edgy, then Yacht Rock will indubitably be your Kryptonite.

Some people consider this genre akin to musical wallpaper, marshmallow fluff, whiter-than-white bread snore-tunes or sax-heavy Sominex-inducing elevator muzak. They consider it slick, soulless pablum, even though true Yacht Rock vibrates with liveliness. Yes, it can be slow but it should never be sleepy; it should be relaxed and chill but never boring. Unfortunately, it's oft mistaken for any East Listening or Adult Contemporary tune (although, to be fair, many of the songs on this list do fall in these categories). But true Yacht Rock will not cause you to yawn; so don't worry, you won't find Air Supply, Barry Manilow or Dan Fogelberg anywhere near one of these rockin' yachts.

But what exactly is "Yacht Rock"? For those who don't know, it includes pop-rock songs from the late 1970's/early 1980's that would sound great on a yacht as you sip your pina coladas and get caught in the rain. Yacht Rock was not designed as thus; forty years ago, these songs that joyously filled the airwaves were called "soft rock" or "blue-eyed soul." It wasn't until the early 2000's when the term "Yacht Rock" was coined and the genre's guidelines were determined by the great J. D. Ryznar, Steve Huey, Hunter Stair, and David Lyons. Now it's everywhere, including on your SiriusXM radio app where a really bad Thurston Howell III soundalike introduces these Doobie-bounced ditties.

How can you identify a potential Yacht Rock classic? You can use Justice Potter Stewart's famous "I know it when I see it" (or, in this case, "hear it") dictum. To my ears, Yacht Rock is slick as an oil spill, part smooth pop, part light rock, both funky and jazzy. Most of the songs have tight harmonies, strong background singers (oftentimes sounding like Michael McDonald lost in an echo chamber), with added horns or strings. It's not lounge music, but it's music to lounge to. It's not disco, so you don't dance to it, but it's music where you can't help but tap your feet.

The joy of Yacht Rock is just that...its joyousness. This is bubblegum music for the jet set or the wannabe Richie Rich's. Its delightfully shallow, and part of its vibrancy is that it doesn't have a bad thought in its head. (Some of the songs obviously don't have any thoughts in their head, but if you want to have an intellectually stimulating conversation about, say, Toto's "Georgy Porgy," then have at it.) But never forget that part of its charm lies in its inability for deeper analysis; it's quite a stretch to compare some of these songs to a Winslow Homer painting or a Thomas Pynchon novel, but I'll try.

Officially, to be considered Yacht Rock, the song must have been released between 1976 and 1984, and I adhere to this rule for the 101. That means no songs that are proto-Yacht Rock, such as Seals & Crofts' "Summer Breeze," Ace's "How Long," or Steely Dan's "Dirty Work," are included. Neither did post-yacht rock favorites ("fire keepers") like Michael McDonald's "Sweet Freedom" (1986) get a chance. Some singers or groups, who are nowhere near Yacht Rock when looking at their oeuvre, may have a single YR classic in their midst; artists like Michael Jackson, Andy Gibb, the Eagles, and Earth, Wind and Fire have at least one Yacht Rock goodie on the list. And then there are those tunes that are not Yacht Rock: Nyacht Rock, which I tried but failed to avoid, but debates will happen nonetheless. For example, is "Escape (The Pina Colada Song)" true Yacht Rock? Purists may say no, but I think there are few songs more yachty than the Rupert Holmes earworm.

Who would be on the Yacht Rock Mount Rushmore? Certainly Michael McDonald, whose presence is everywhere on this list with the Doobie Brothers, solos, duets, and as a backing vocalist on many of these tunes; he has 8 entries (not counting his prolific background singing). Kenny Loggins also epitomizes the genre (with 4 songs on the list, plus he co-wrote the #1 tune), as does Christopher Cross (with 5 songs on the list). But who gets that final position? Steely Dan (6 songs), Toto (6 songs), or Boz Scaggs (5 songs)? I'll let you try to settle on the filling of the fourth Rushmore slot.

And shouldn't there be a Yacht Rock Broadway musical? There are Yacht Rock tours, online series, books, websites, radio stations, podcasts, Spotify playlists; why not an official jukebox musical?

Lastly, you may ask: What makes me, a theatre reviewer, a Yacht Rock expert? For starters, I lived through these songs during my teenage years; they are the soundtrack of my younger self, especially when listening to Casey Kasem every Sunday morning on American Top-40 on CK-101. No matter how cheesy, I have a place in my heart for them. And on my 60 th birthday, I hope to rent a yacht, invite friends, don an ascot and captain's hat, and while enjoying mounds of caviar, listen to the soothing sounds of my youth. I'll use this list, my YACHT ROCK 101, as our guide, and hopefully you will too. (And hopefully if a song is unfamiliar to you, then you'll seek it out on You Tube or Spotify.) So, without further ado, counting down Kasem-style from #101 to #1, let's climb aboard...

THE 101 GREATEST YACHT ROCK SONGS!

101. NOTHIN' YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT [Airplay; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: N/A]

We start our three-hour tour here, Mr. Howell, with Airplay's little-known yachter, "Nothin' You Can Do About It," featuring David Foster, who peppers much of the following 101, and Jay Graydon, who played guitar on the Yacht Rock classic, "Peg." And as you'll find in so many songs here, the session musicians from Toto play the instruments and lift this horn-pocked One-Off into the stratosphere. It's poppy and breezy and everything that a YR hit should be. And its lyrics could be the Yacht Rock credo: "Relax; enjoy the ride!"

100. GEORGY PORGY [Toto; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #48]

This sounds like an outtake from a lost Boz Scaggs album. I have a place deep (very deep) in my heart for this. Yes, it's annoying, and Cheryl "Got to Be Real" Lynn's "Georgy Porgy, pudding pie/Kissed the girls and made them cry" refrain will get horrifically stuck in your head, but my oh my, how I love its glorious badness. (Some might claim that this isn't Yacht Rock, it's Yuck Rock.) No other chart would dare unearth this lost remnant that many think should remain lost, but it's too late baby, yes, it's too late. And if you want a sign of the coming Apocalypse: The endearingly ridiculous "Georgy Porgy" is more popular and beloved now than when it was first released.

99. THE THEME FROM "THE GREATEST AMERICAN HERO" (BELIEVE IT OR NOT) [Joey Scarbury; 1981; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #2]

Yacht Rock songs are usually called "likable," which is sort of a masked insult. When you can't think of something nice to say, you usually fall back on "likable," which doesn't mean you like it; it just means someone out there may like it. And "The Theme from 'The Greatest American Hero'" is certainly likable; it's maybe the only thing we remember from the otherwise forgotten William Katt TV series, which lasted three seasons. For "Seinfeld" fans, George's use of it on his answering machine in "The Susie" episode put the song on a level way above its pay grade. Just last year, it also showed up (with "Seinfeld's" Jason Alexander) in a Tide commercial. So, this song has planted its flag in our more current pop culture landscape; perhaps it and the roaches will be the only things to survive the end of the world. Believe it or not.

98. INTO THE NIGHT [Benny Mardones; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #11]

97. WE JUST DISAGREE [Dave Mason; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #12]

96. KEY LARGO [Bertie Higgins; 1982; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #8]

95. ESCAPE (THE PINA COLADA SONG) [Rupert Holmes; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

These four songs, including one #1 hit, will cause arguments from purists; they score them low on the official Yacht Rock scale and label them the dreaded Nyacht Rock. But I think each of them deserve to be on the list, even if this low. Benny Mardones was a key part of one of my high school experiences as the special musical guest for 1981's Grad Night at Disney World; I remember hearing "Into the Night" into the nighttime distance and knowing that I was in the right place at the right time. (And I take the song's narrator as a teenager crooning about a girl-because with lines like "she's just sixteen years old/Leave her alone, they say," it's just too creepily cringy to contend with otherwise.) "We Just Disagree" builds as the best Yacht Rock songs do, even if it may be too gloomy in subject matter (the breaking up of a relationship). "Key Largo" by Tampa Bay area native Bertie Higgins may be more Tropical Rock than Yacht Rock, but it's yachty enough to make the cut; besides, who can resist the Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall allusions? And Rupert Holmes's "Escape," the last word in 70's pop, is what many people think of when they read the term "Yacht Rock." And yes, it may be excessively wordy for the genre, complete with a twist ending, but to leave it off the list entirely would be a pop culture misdemeanor if not a crime. For the purists who will not escape the strict Yacht Rock guidelines and unnecessarily nix great and yachty songs like these, then we just disagree.

94. YAH-MO BE THERE [James Ingram with Michael McDonald; 1983; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #19]

A Yacht Rock staple and the first appearance of the ubiquitous Mr. McDonald on our list. I'm sure more than one person agrees with Paul Rudd from the move The 40-Year-Old Virgin when he, having McDonald's songs on a continuous loop at his work place, exclaims, "...If I hear 'Yah-Mo Be There' one more time, I'm gonna 'yah mo' burn this place to the ground!"

93. BREEZIN' [George Benson; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #63]

The first of two instrumentals on the list and the initial Yacht Rock sighting of George Benson. I mentioned earlier that none of these songs should be compared to paintings by Winslow Homer, but if any comes close, it's this one, especially Homer's "Breezin' Up." Try looking at the painting and hearing the Benson hook at the same time, and I'll see you in the morning.

92. FOOLISH HEART [Steve Perry; 1984; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #8]

Although Steve Perry is more famous as the onetime front man for Journey, and for making "Don't Stop Believin'" the most overplayed track from the Eighties, this is his sole entry into my Yacht Rock 101. His smooth voice haunts this with an uber-emotional yearning that seldom finds its way onto the feel-good vibes found elsewhere on this list.

91. 99 [Toto; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #26]

Chalk up another inspiration from a George Lucas film, although not the film you may think it is. Star Wars may be Lucas' biggest achievement, but this song takes its idea from the seldom-seen Lucas cult hit, THX 1138 , which is dystopian cold in feeling. That such a stark story (losing your identity and only being known as numbers) gets the smooth pop-light Toto treatment can only be construed as ironic.

90. ONE STEP CLOSER [The Doobie Brothers; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #24]

The Doobie Brothers' last gasp of the Michael McDonald era before our bearded musical Michelangelo would meander into a solo career.

89. HARD HABIT TO BREAK [Chicago; 1984; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #3]

Love is an addictive drug that lasts years in this beautiful if not overwrought ballad produced by David Foster.

88. DO RIGHT [Paul Davis; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #23]

A rare example of RYR: Religious Yacht Rock. Certainly the most unabashedly Christian song on the list, its opening lines like something out of an old Jim and Tammy Bakker telecast from the early 1980's: " I know that he gave his life for me/Set all our spirits free/So I want to do right, want to do right/All of my life ..." Musically it has a total yacht quality, a toe-tapping buoyant drive, that didn't stop it from being the 10 th biggest Adult Contemporary Christian hit of 1980.

87. DON'T TALK TO STRANGERS [Rick Springfield; 1982; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #2]

A year after "Jessie's Girl," Rick Springfield nearly hit the top of the charts with this Yacht Rock plea of jealous rage (though Springfield's demeanor doesn't come across as "rage"; he seems disdainful but laid back, which is why this perfectly fits the YR mold). It's too much fun to rival "Every Breath You Take" in the paranoid Top-10 hit department. Make sure not to miss the lyrics in French near the song's end which are there because...well, I don't know exactly why they're there, but I appreciate the nod to Francophiles.

86. WAITING FOR YOUR LOVE [Toto; 1982; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #73]

This is Toto's third song in the 101, paving way for claims that they should be the final slot on the Yacht Rock Mount Rushmore. "Waiting for Your Love" may not have hit big, stalling at a disappointing #73 on the charts, but has since been cited as one of Toto's greatest songs.

85. IT KEEPS YOU RUNNIN' [The Doobie Brothers; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #37]

Michael McDonald's soulful vocals and the band's mesmerizingly funky rhythm catapult this entry into the stratosphere. Yes, it was shoved onto the soundtrack of Forrest Gump , but its Yacht Rock status comes from it being featured in another film (and soundtrack that is a Yacht Rock purist's dream): the forgotten film FM (which spawned an even higher entry on this list...Steely Dan's infectious title cut).

84. LOOK WHAT YOU'VE DONE TO ME [Boz Scaggs; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #14]

Boz Scaggs wasn't born with the name "Boz." Actually born William Royce Scaggs, he got the nickname "Boz" after someone kept wrongly referring to him as "Bosley" at St. Marks Academy. And with a name like "Boz," Yacht Rock elite status was certainly destined. In the 1970's, Scaggs would perfect that laid back soft rock sound with a slight funky beat, the quintessence of Yacht Rock. This song, slower than most on this list, would become his big reaching-for-the-stars power pop ballad, and it didn't hurt that it was featured in a John Travolta film (Urban Cowboy).

83. KISS YOU ALL OVER [Exile; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

It's hard to imagine that learned people that I deeply admire have a difficult time including this as a Yacht Rock staple. With synthesized strings and inspired by the grizzly growling orgasmic sound of Barry White in "It's Ecstasy When You Lay Down Next To Me," "Kiss You All Over" was voted ninth in Billboard's 2010 list of "The 50 Sexiest Songs of All Time" (for the record, "Physical" was #1).

82. BABYLON SISTERS [Steely Dan; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: N/A]

Dante-esque tour of California, with the jaded Yacht Kings, Steely Dan, playing the part of Virgil as your guide. Singing backup on this track, crooning those haunting words "Here comes those Santa Ana winds again," is none other than Patti Austin, who will be even more involved with another Yacht Rock classic that you'll find further down the list [see "Baby, Come to Me"]. A delicious downer.

81. SMOKE FROM A DISTANT FIRE [Sanford Townsend Band; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #9]

One of the great One Hit Wonders of the 1970's.

80. HOLD THE LINE [Toto; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #5]

The song that put the session musicians of Toto on the map and the fourth of their hits to make our 101.

79. TAKIN' IT TO THE STREETS [The Doobie Brothers; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #13]

The world was introduced to Michael McDonald as a Doobie right here, their first song written by him for the Doobie's and with him on lead vocals. And thus, the King of Yacht Rock started his reign. Also, who can forget the 1978 episode of "What's Happening" with Rerun illegally recording the Doobie's singing this very song?

78. KEEP THE FIRE [Kenny Loggins; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #36]

Mr. and Mrs. Howell, let me introduce you to our next entry...Kenny Loggins with his very own Herbie Hancock-inspired vocoder long before it was in vogue.

77. ISN'T IT TIME [The Babys; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #13]

Michael Corby's opening piano, backed with syrupy violins, leads way to John Waite's oxymoronic soft bombastic vocals and Tony Brock's pulsating drum work. Lisa Freeman-Roberts, Myrna Matthews and Pat Henderson get their gospel groove on while backing Waite's hearty screech in this scrumptious pop treat.

76. YOU CAN'T CHANGE THAT [Raydio; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #9]

A cool breeze of a song by Ray Parker Jr. & Co., one of the few Yacht Rock light-soul classics that you can dance to, though it's way too laid back to be considered disco. A song that immediately puts you in a good mood no matter how bad your day had been previously.

75. LIDO SHUFFLE [Boz Scaggs; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard 100: #11]

Boz again, with this ode to a drifter looking for some luck. The galvanizing music would be created by none other than David Paich (keyboards), David Hungate (bass), and Jeff Porcaro (drums), all of them future members of Toto. Whoa-oh-oh-oh!

74. WHAT'CHA GONNA DO? [Pablo Cruise; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #6]

Is there a more apt band name for Yacht Rock greatness than "Pablo Cruise"? And this tune, a key part of that summer of 1977, was where they first introduced themselves to us in all their infectious pop-light glory. The group hit #6 in the U.S., which isn't bad, but Canada got it right when they elevated this tasty morsel to #1 on their charts.

73. SENTIMENTAL LADY [Bob Welch; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #8]

Bob Welch, a former member of Fleetwood Mac, originally recorded this for their 1972 album Bare Trees . After leaving the band, he recorded it again, giving it the lush Yacht Rock treatment. Fleetwood Mac may not be considered official Yacht Rock gurus, but this song comes closest, with the majority of their members performing on it: Mick Fleetwood on drums, John McVie on bass, Christine McVie on piano as well as joining Lindsey Buckingham in background vocals. All that's missing is Stevie.

72. MISS SUN [Boz Scaggs; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #14]

We can thank this record for giving us our beloved Toto. Originally recorded by them in 1977, and due to their tight musicianship, Toto made a deal with Columbia Records solely based on their performance of this song. Ironically, it didn't make Toto's first LP, but Boz and the Toto gang recorded it for his Hits! compilation and the rest is Yacht Rock history.

71. JOSIE [Steely Dan; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #26]

One of Steely Dan's very best, especially Chuck Rainey's hypnotic bass. And those lyrics: " When Josie comes home/So bad/She's the best friend we ever had/She's the raw flame/The live wire/She prays like a Roman/With her eyes on fire." Question: Where is Josie coming home from? College? War? Prison? With Steely Dan's don't-care-if-listeners-understand-them obtuse lyrics, we'll never know.

70. YOU ARE THE WOMAN [Firefall; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #9]

69. STILL THE ONE [Orleans; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #5]

Two light-rock classics from Year One of Yacht Rock. "You Are the Woman" would become a quasi-staple of yachty wedding reception playlists, especially if a flautist happened to be on board; "Still the One" would be the commercial jingle for both ABC-TV in the 1970's and Applebee's restaurants just a couple of years ago.

68. YEAR OF THE CAT [Al Stewart; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #8]

Perhaps the most haunting song on the list; it's what you get when you mix Casablanca with the Vietnamese Zodiac.

67. THUNDER ISLAND [Jay Ferguson; 1977; ; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #9]

This passionate ode to island lovin' can be heard in Anchorman 2 , the hockey movie Miracle , and the great "To'Hajiilee" episode of Breaking Bad .

66. RICH GIRL [Hall & Oates; 1977; ; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

Hall & Oates first chart-topper and perhaps the first #1 single to use the word "bitch" in it. Interestingly, the song was written about a guy initially-the spoiled heir to a Chicago-based entrepreneur who owned Walker Bros. Original Pancake House and ran fifteen KFC restaurants; the gender of the person was changed and the song suddenly became destined for pop culture immortality. And yes, it entered skin-crawling notoriety when Son of Sam himself, David Berkowitz, claimed the song inspired him to continue his serial killing rampage that paralyzed New York City that summer of '77.

65. MORNIN' [Al Jarreau; 1983; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #21]

64. LOVELY DAY [Bill Withers; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #30]

Two of the peppiest songs imaginable, both about splendid sunshine days, perfect for relaxing while you count your money on your very own yacht. Jarreau's "Mornin'" sounds like the feel-good opening of a Broadway show, while Withers hit the motherlode with "Lovely Day," ubiquitous in ads and movies for the past 45 years, complete with an impressive 18-second note that Withers sings that may be the longest ever in a Top-40 hit

63. ARTHUR'S THEME (BEST THAT YOU CAN DO) [Christopher Cross; 1981; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

Christopher Cross is up there with Michael McDonald as the face of Yacht Rock, and this Academy Award winner for Best Song from the movie Arthur put Cross at the pinnacle of his success. He never came close to those heights again, but Yacht Rock gave his cannon (and career) a whole new life.

62. LONELY BOY [Andrew Gold; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #7]

Teenage psychopathy never sounded so good.

61. BEING WITH YOU [Smokey Robinson; 1981; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #2]

Smokey's "Being with You" was kept out of the #1 position because Kim Carnes' owned the top of the '81 charts with the behemoth "Bette Davis Eyes." So the story goes, Smokey loved Carnes' version of his own "More Love" from the year before that he wrote a song specifically for her...and that song was "Being with You." But it was such a strong tune that he opted to record it himself and eventually had to settle with it at #2, behind the person who the song was originally intended for.

60. HOW MUCH I FEEL [Ambrosia; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #3]

Ambrosia is another Yacht Rock giant whose slick soft pop sound and lush harmonies would epitomize the genre.

59. LIVING INSIDE MYSELF [Gino Vannelli; 1981; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #6]

Is this too intense for Yacht Rock? Maybe at times with Vannelli's head-bursting vocals. But it's a musical treasure trove, at times as dramatic as any Hamlet soliloquy, and Vannelli sings it like an overemotive Johnnie Ray resurrected with big hair.

58. JOJO [Boz Scaggs; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #17]

Smoothly soulful as it is , "Jojo" deals with the darker side of Yacht Rock. The title character is quite obviously a pimp, especially with lines like "fifty dollars, he'll get you all you want" or "His baby stays high...he keeps her on the street." As rough as the thematic waters may seem, the music is smooth sailing, the perfect fusion of pop, jazz and funk. All this and Toto, too.

57. WHAT YOU WON'T DO FOR LOVE [Bobby Caldwell; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #9]

Of course this made the list. A heart-shaped pressing of the song was released just in time for Valentine's Day, 1979, and cost a whopping $7.98 from consumers (which was the price of most LP's back then) . So many artists from Boys II Men, Michael Bolton and even Tupac Shakur either covered it or sampled its contagious mellowness.

56. LOVE TAKES TIME [Orleans; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #11]

At the time, here's how Cash Box described the music of this winner: "...synthesizer coloration, firm pounding beat, piano, searing guitar fills, tambourine and dynamic singing." In other words, 100% pure Yacht Rock!

55. KISS ON MY LIST [Hall & Oates; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

Certainly on my list of the best things in life.

54. SO INTO YOU [Atlanta Rhythm Section; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #7]

The lightest of Southern Rockers, Atlanta Rhythm Section's laid back brand of guitar rock suited the late 70's perfectly, a nice alternate to the disco pandemic but not quite in Lynryd Skynyrd territory either. Also, is the title "So Into You" a double entendre? And were the lyrics more sexually explicit than we ever imagined? " It's gonna be good, don't you know/From your head to your toe/Me into you, you into me, me into you..."

53. YOU'RE THE ONLY WOMAN [Ambrosia; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #13]

In sone ways Ambrosia may be the most Yacht Rocky of all groups (don't worry, Toto and Steely Dan will always give them a run for the money). But this song underscores the carefree feel of the genre, like reclining on a yacht with these words on the breeze in the background: "You and I've been in love too long/To worry about tomorrow/Here's a place where we both belong/I know you're the only woman I'm dreaming of..." Not worrying about tomorrow, just floating without a care in tthe world. Is there anything more yachty than that?

52. I'D REALLY LOVE TO SEE YOU TONIGHT [England Dan & John Ford Coley; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #2]

Ingenious opening, the listener privy to a one-way phone conversation: " Hello, yeah, it's been a while/Not much, how 'bout you?/I'm not sure why I called/I guess, I really just wanted to talk to you ..." It's up to the listener to decide whether the caller is pathetic or sweet. "I'd Really Love to See You Tonight" may be the perfect easy listening song of all time, better than anything by Barry Manilow (who would cover it decades later); it's its sing-along boisterousness that saves it from being unceremoniously tossed into the Nyacht Rock bin.

51. EVERY TIME I THINK OF YOU [The Babys; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #13]

Another feel-good Babys bombast, pounding the power pop vibes in a song that's both intense and full of positive feelies.

50. ALL NIGHT LONG (ALL NIGHT) [Lionel Richie; 1983; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

This massive hit has a bit of everything, a sort of melting pot of styles--adult contemporary, pop, R&B, Richie's soothing easy listening vocals, all to a Caribbean beat. The song was everywhere in 1984, in the popular music video (directed by Five East Pieces' Bob Rafelson and produced by Mike Nesmith of the Monkees), heard in the premiere of "Miami Vice," and sung by Richie at the closing ceremonies of the '84 Olympics. And what is the translation of the lines, " Tom bo li de say de moi ya/Yeah jambo jumbo"? Don't even bothering going to Google Translate; turns out they're just gibberish with no deeper meaning. No deeper meaning, i.e. the way we like our Yacht Rock.

49. IF YOU LEAVE ME NOW [Chicago; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

So popular that it's featured in works as diverse as "The Modern Family," "South Park," Shaun of the Dead and even the video game, Grand Theft Auto V . It's perhaps the most soaring, lush, heartfelt and yearning ballad on the list, with Peter Cetera's lead vocals drowning listeners in waves of pure reverie.

48. JUST REMEMBER I LOVE YOU [Firefall; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #11]

Such a sober, serious song in such a vibrantly feel-good genre, and yet it's uplifting and filled with hope. I think of someone on the verge of suicide, maybe wanting to jump off a building or maybe seeking help calling a hotline, and the singer, perhaps a close friend, talking him or her down: " When there's so much trouble that you want to cry/When your love has crumbled and you don't know why/When your hopes are fading and they can't be found/Dreams have left you waiting, friends let you down..." But then the friend reminds the sorrowful soul, "just remember I love you and it will be all right" and that "maybe all your blues will wash away..." And that's really what Yacht Rock does, doesn't it? It washes those blues away.

47. BABY, COME TO ME [Patti Austin & James Ingram; 1982; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

As with so many songs on this list, Michael McDonald adds superb backing vocals here, in this enchanting ballad made famous by its appearance on "General Hospital" as Luke and Holly's love song.

46. HEY NINETEEN [Steely Dan; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #10]

An aging boomer can't connect with his young lover; not quite Nabokovian but close, especially when the leering singer exclaims to his youngling in the perviest way possible, "Skate a little lower now!" The 19-year-old girl in question doesn't even know who Aretha Franklin is; I was 18 when the song was released and I sure knew the Queen of Soul as did most of my peers. Who, I wondered way back when, is this ditsy girl? Perhaps the most startling thing about the work is the singer's unblinking dive into cocaine and alcohol in order to be able to deal with a world that is slowly leaving him behind: " The Cuervo Gold / The fine Colombian / Make tonight a wonderful thing..."

45. YOU BELONG TO ME [Carly Simon; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #6]

44. HE'S SO SHY [The Pointer Sisters; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #3]

43. THROUGH THE FIRE [Chaka Khan; 1984; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #60]

Yacht Rock is not known for its diversity. Of course there are several songs by people of color, and there are definitely strong women on the chart, but we would be remiss if we did not mention that overall the genre is mostly male and white. But the women who do appear on the list have created some of the finest tunes of them all. Carly Simon's wondrous "You Belong to Me," written by Simon and Michael McDonald with backing vocals by James Taylor, started as a Doobie ballad, but Simon's more poignant version actually bests the "Brothers." The Pointer Sisters are not Yacht Rock, but their hit, "He's So Shy," certainly is; that they sang it with Isaac on an infamous episode of "The Love Boat" is about the highest order of Yachtdom there is. And Chaka Khan's "Through the Fire," produced by David Foster, is one her all-time greatest songs, even though it didn't score big in the Land of the Hot-100; still, Khan's vocals are breathtaking in this scorching torchy ballad that is nothing short of Yacht Rock gold bullion.

42. TIME OUT OF MIND [Steely Dan; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #22]

One of the funkiest songs about heroin ("chasing the dragon") ever written.

41. AN EVERLASTING LOVE [Andy Gibb; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #5]

40. AFTER THE LOVE HAS GONE [Earth, Wind & Fire; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #2]

39. I CAN'T TELL YOU WHY [The Eagles; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #8]

38. HUMAN NATURE [Michael Jackson; 1982; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #7]

Not all Yacht Rock hits are by Yacht Rock artists, as is the case with these four songs. The Bee Gees are definitely not Yacht Rock, especially their disco hits, and neither is brother Andy Gibb...with one exception. Gibb's "An Everlasting Love" with its nonstop overlapping vocals (combined with Barry Gibb's falsetto and the string arrangement) make this irresistible. Earth, Wind & Fire's "After the Love Has Gone," another David Foster masterpiece, with its rousing vocals and brilliant use of horns, is EWF's most gorgeous tune. The Eagles, certainly not a Yacht Rock group (though often mistaken as such), has one hit in their oeuvre that's unadulterated YR: "I Can't Tell You Why," with Timothy B. Schmidt, pulling out his inner Smokey Robinson and Al Green, providing its stirring lead vocals. And Michael Jackson's Yacht Rock entry, "Human Nature" from the Thriller album , was backed by members of Toto, with some of Jackson's most lush vocals, and is the dictionary definition of the word "euphoric."

37. HOT ROD HEARTS [Robbie Dupree; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #15] There are so many hits in the rock era about two teenagers making love in a parked car, from "Night Movies" to "Paradise By the Dashboard Lights," but "Heart Rod Hearts" may be the most daring of them all in its own way: " Ten miles east of the highway/Hot sparks burnin' the night away/Two lips touchin' together/Cheek to cheek, sweatshirt to sweater/Young love born in a back seat/Two hearts pound out a back beat / Headlights, somebody's comin'..." And obviously that last lyric just quoted has a rather sordid double meaning.

36. JUST THE TWO OF US [Grover Washington, Jr. with Bill Withers; 1981; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #2]

This jazzy ballad, with Withers' heart full o' soul vocals, is a soft-jazz saxfest, later spawning Will Smith's cover (about fathers and sons), Bill Cosby's unlistenable "Just the Slew of Us," and, most hilariously, Dr. Evil's duet with Mini Me in Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me .

35. MAGNET AND STEEL [Walter Egan; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #8]

Inspired by Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks, who sings backup in it, "Magnet and Steel" is totally yachtriffic, with inspiring heavenly harmonies. A sort of musical snapshot of 1978, this light-rock masterwork is featured in the phenomenal Boogie Nights and the phlegmatic Deuce Bigalow: American Gigolo .

34. WHENEVER I CALL YOU FRIEND [Kenny Loggins with Stevie Nicks; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #5]

One of the great duet tracks on the list, written by Loggins and Melissa Manchester. When first released, because Stevie Nicks is not credited on the original 45 single, this was officially considered Loggins first solo Top-40 hit.

33. GIVE ME THE NIGHT [George Benson; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #4]

Yacht Rock was created for George Benson's jazzy-guitar, cool-funk sensibilities. Although "Give Me the Night" may border on disco, it's not quite there and rests firmly in our beloved Yacht Rock territory.

32. NEVER BE THE SAME [Christopher Cross; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #15]

Love never dies, not even after a break up, not even after you've found someone else; that's what this Christopher Cross song teaches us: " The years go by, there's always someone new/To try and help me forget about you/Time and again it does me no good/Love never feels the way that it should..."

31. TIME PASSAGES [Al Stewart; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #7]

There's a floating, drifting quality to the song, as '70's mellow as they come. The top single of the year on the Easy Listening charts, "Time Passages" has Al Stewart's thin voice singing, " Drifting into time passages / Years go falling in the fading light / Time passages/Buy me a ticket on the last train home tonight..." If he had sung about a "yacht" rather than a "train," then this classic might rest even higher on the YR list.

30. REAL LOVE [The Doobie Brothers; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #5]

29. LOTTA LOVE [Nicolette Larson; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #7]

Nicolette Larson sings backup on the Doobie's third biggest hit, "Real Love," and lead on her sweet cover of Neil Young's "Lotta Love." Take the lyric, "It's gonna take a lotta love/To change the way things are..." In Young's version, he comes across as rather somber, yearning, on the verge of melancholia, like it's a wish that he knows can never be fulfilled; Larson sings with a Melanie-like playfulness to a disco-light beat, and in her hands the song becomes life-affirming, vivacious, with a somewhat positive can-do attitude that's not found in the original.

28. I'M NOT GONNA LET IT BOTHER ME TONIGHT [Atlanta Rhythm Section; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #14]

This song's sensibility is all Yacht Rock...that the world is in upheaval, and there are terrors out there waiting to destroy us, but who cares when we can save the worry for another day? This outlook stands as the true philosophy of procrastination found in Yacht Rock: " About all the pain and injustice / About all of the sorrow / We're living in a danger zone / The world could end tomorrow/But I'm not gonna let it bother me tonight..."

27. FEELS SO GOOD [Chuck Mangione; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #4]

The title of this flugelhorn-driven instrumental says it all.

26. ALL RIGHT [Christopher Cross; 1983; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #12]

If you're ever down and troubled, then do yourself a favor: Put on Christopher Cross' "All Right," with MM's patented backing vocals, and watch as the bad times wash away and a smile creeps upon your face. This stands as perhaps the most optimistic song ever written: "'Cause it's all right, think we're gonna make it/Think it might just work out this time..."

25. TURN YOUR LOVE AROUND [George Benson; 1981; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #5]

George Benson + Toto + David Foster + Jay Graydon on guitar + an early use of the Linn LM-1 Drum machine = Yacht Rock platinum status.

24. MINUTE BY MINUTE [The Doobie Brothers; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #14]

Listening to this Michael McDonald marvel of mellowness beats Xanax any day.

23. ONE HUNDRED WAYS [Quincy Jones and James Ingram; 1981; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #14]

What a perfect example of scrumptiously soft soul music with the velvet voice of Mr. Ingram leading the way, singing a litany of 100 things to romance his lady. He's never been better than a moment in this Grammy-winner, when he hits outrageous notes while singing, "Sacrifice if you care/Buy her some moonlight to wear..." To quote Robert Palmer: Simply irresistible.

22. I LOVE YOU [The Climax Blues Band; 1981; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #12]

This surely plays on rotation in heaven.

21. BAKER STREET [Gerry Rafferty; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #2]

Is this the coolest Top-5 hit of the 1970's? With Raphael Ravencroft's searing saxophone riff rivaling anything by Clarence Clemons, the answer must be a resounding YES!

20. FM (NO STATIC AT ALL) [Steely Dan; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #22]

Perhaps the only Top-40 hit where the songwriters dare to rhyme "Elvis" with "yells his" and sing about "grapefruit wine." Recorded as the title song for a little-known 1978 film, FM, the significance of this Grammy-winning Steely Dan song cannot go unnoticed. The year it was released was the first time FM radio (clearer sound, no static at all) superseded AM radio (too much static) in listening popularity. So, if you ran an AM station and had to play a song called "FM" in rotation-a song about your competitor, a radio format that was making you obsolete-then what would you do? In the case of some stations, they edited the Steely Dan track and put the "A" sound from the group's song "Aja" where the "F" in "FM" should be. Their newly fine-tuned tune would be called "AM," even though the repeated phrase of "no static at all" would now make no sense whatsoever.

19. COOL NIGHT [Paul Davis; 1981; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #11]

Paul Davis' ultimate love song, even stronger than his iconic "I Go Crazy." Its boppin' bliss shields the fact that the lead singer is lost: " I sometimes wonder why /All the flowers have to die / I dream about you /And now, Summer's come and gone / And the nights they seem so long ..." But this is Paul Davis, and nothing can bring him down, not when there's a cool night comin' and he invites his love to join him by the fire so that they can bring "back memories of a good life when this love was not so old..." The singer's optimism is so heartfelt, and this being Yacht Rock, we know that these two will ultimately get back together.

18. REMINISCING [Little River Band; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #3]

This slick throwback to a black-and-white Cole Porter world should be on any indispensable wedding reception playlist, starting with a young couple falling in love and ending when they're older, spending their hours looking back at their good times. You would think this melodic pop treasure would be a Paul McCartney fave, but in an interesting twist, it was John Lennon who claimed "Reminiscing" as one of his favorite songs.

17. DEACON BLUES [Steely Dan; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #19]

This slick, sprawling mega-work about a midlife crisis is the most epic of Yacht Rock songs, its jazzy War and Peace , a veritable A la Recherche du Tremps Perdu . If you want to hear a fan of the University of Alabama cheer, then play them this line: "They call Alabama the Crimson Tide/Call me Deacon Blues." Still, the song is so seriously sober in tone that few people, even the most ardent of Alabama fanatics, will be yelling "Roll Tide!" after hearing it.

16. BABY COME BACK [Player; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

Tranquil and comforting even though it was written after two of the Player members suffered recent break-ups. Pop culture has had a heyday with its infectious hook, with "Baby Come Back" popping up in the Transformers, "The Simpsons," "King of the Hill" and even a "General Hospital" ep featuring the band themselves playing this classic live.

15. AFRICA [Toto; 1982; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

The Gods of Yacht Rock blessed the reign of this "Africa," Toto's sole #1 single that has been hailed by Rolling Stone magazine as "The New 'Don't Stop Believin'." It's been utilized in such works as Stranger Things, South Park and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City . During the funeral of Nelson Mandela, CBS accompanied the footage with this song, raising more than one eyebrow. But if you haven't heard the song in awhile, or have never heard it (who are you?), then please heed the song's advice: "Hurry, boy, it's waiting there for you!"

14. MOONLIGHT FEELS RIGHT [Starbuck; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #3]

"The wind blew some luck in my direction/I caught it in my hands today..." One of the earliest Yacht Rock ventures on the list, with nods to French Connections, Ole Miss, the Chesapeake Bay, Southern Belles ("hell at night") and 1974 graduates ("a class of '74 gold ring"). According to Casey Kasem on AT-40, it was also the first song to chart that featured a marimba. Wafts along so joyfully, complete with suggestive giggles at the end of a particularly evocative verse.

13. COOL CHANGE [Little River Band; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #10]

In its own way, perhaps the yachtiest song on the list, a plea for escape, to come to terms with nature, to sail away on the "cool and bright clear water." It's not unlike Thoreau's "Walden Pond" set to music: "Well, I was born in the sign of water/And it's there that I feel my best/The albatross and the whales, they are my brothers/It's kind of a special feeling/When you're out on the sea alone/Staring at the full moon like a lover..." With "Cool Change," we don't need to journey outdoors to escape by emracing nature, to climb mountains or to sail the seas; we have the song itself which, to this listener, becomes the perfect escape without ever having to leave the house.

12. THIS IS IT [Kenny Loggins; 1979; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #11]

"It's not a love song," Loggins once said. "It's a life song." If you want proof of American exceptionalism, go no further than here, because this is it . Although written for personal reasons, the song was needed when America was a bit down and out, "our backs to the corner" so to speak: Long gas lines, the Three Miles Island nuclear catastrophe, the cold war in its iciest state in years, and American hostages in Iran. And this song said it best: "Sometimes I believe/We'll always survive/Now I'm not so sure..." But then he stands tall and proclaims: "For once in your life/Here's your miracle/Stand up and fight!" I look at today, when America and the world once again are down and out (with soaring gas prices, gun violence, Russia invading the Ukraine and extreme tribalism); it's not a bad idea to play "This Is It" at full volume in order to lift our spirits, to help us stand up and fight through these dark days.

11. RIDE LIKE THE WIND [Christopher Cross; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #2]

It's like something you'd find in a Sam Peckinpah film: A murderer of ten people is on the run, escaping inevitable execution (by hanging), chased by a posse all the way "to the border of Mexico." And yes, in "Ride Like the Wind," the bad guy gets away with it in this thrilling ride of a song, both driving and jazzy, with the trumpeting death horns and Michael McDonald's background vocals seemingly chasing the outlaw lead singer. Only recently I discovered that the line in the song is "gunned down ten," not "Gunga Din"; am I the only one who misunderstood these lyrics for most of my life?

10. LOWDOWN [Boz Scaggs; 1976; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #3]

Here's the "dirty lowdown" (the honest truth) about "Lowdown." Boz Scaggs reinvented himself as the sunglasses-at-night bastion of cool with this soft-funk, discofied killer of a track. It was written by Scaggs and David Paich, their first collaboration; Paich, as you may know, would later go on to form the group Toto. Their creation would be honored with a Grammy win for best R&B song, and Scaggs would become the first white artist to win the award in that particular category. It could have also been one of the great additions to the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, which the filmmakers wanted, but Boz's manager nixed the idea. They lost tons of money and popularity by settling for the soundtrack of the trauma-drama, Looking for Mr. Goodbar , where incidentally I first heard the song and wound up playing it over and over again long after it was a Top-10 hit.

9. LOVE WILL FIND A WAY [Pablo Cruise; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #6]

"Shadow Dancing" may have been the #1 song of '78, but it's this Pablo Cruise rollicking heap of pop brilliance that overfilled the radio airwaves that summer the way ivy covers the walls of Harvard. It was everywhere, and you couldn't escape it: "Once you get past the pain/You'll learn to find your love again." Such optimism, such hope, "Love Will Find a Way" became the signature hit of that fun-filled summer. It wasn't deep, but don't worry, it was happy. Pablo Cruise actually exemplifies the YR genre, the positive vibes perfect for summertime paradise by a band long forgotten, now remembered endearingly and, due to the recent adoration of Yacht Rock, justifiably immortalized.

8. ROSANNA [Toto; 1982; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #2]

The ultimate Toto tune and, thus, one of the Ultimate Yacht Rock entries. Named after Rosanna Arquette, the song became the summer anthem of '82, nesting at #2 for five weeks. The song's West Side Story -inspired music video featured Patrick Swayze, a year before The Outsiders, in a small part and Cynthia Rhodes as the title girl. Sylvester Stallone, who was directing Stayin' Alive at the time, saw Rhodes in the video and immediately cast her as a lead in his film. Stayin' Alive turned out to be a bad film, but it's a great story.

7. PEG [Steely Dan; 1977; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #11]

Welcome to L.A. where we're at a questionable photoshoot for an actress/model of perhaps ill-repute named Peg; narrating it is a disgruntle, sarcastic boyfriend who keeps her pictures with him and loves her even more due to her fame or infamy. The mention of foreign movies in the lyrics brings to mind seedier fair for our Pag, perhaps pornography. But any Steely Dan darkness that shrouds "Peg" is eclipsed by the jubilant music, so springy, so animated, so full of verve. Add Michael McDonald's patented backing vocals and Jay Graydon's guitar work, and you have nothing less than a fist-in-the-air triumph .

6. I KEEP FORGETTIN' (EVERY TIME YOU'RE NEAR) [Michael McDonald; 1982; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #4]

The captain of our Yacht Rock, Michael McDonald is everywhere in this 101. If you take only the top 12 songs, his voiceprints can be found somewhere in following: #12, #11, #7, #6, #3 and #1. And this song, his first big solo scribed by both McDonald and Ed Sanford (of the Sanford Townsend Band, famous for "Smoke from a Distant Fire"), obviously typifies the genre as strong as Coca Cola typifies soda. It even boasts the title of an episode of the online video series, "Yacht Rock," which after you've seen it is something you'll never forget.

5. STEAL AWAY [Robbie Dupree; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #6]

Yes, it sounds a little too close to the bubbly beat of "What a Fool Believes." And yes, it's the only time you will ever see Robbie Dupree in a Top-10 list during the modern era. But this is a wonder of Yacht Rocky delight, so shallow, so sweetly stupid, and so infectious to the ear. Listening to it might zap a few IQ points away from you, but the song is so agreeable, so toe-tappingly charming, who cares?

4. BIGGEST PART OF ME [Ambrosia; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #3]

Michael McDonald did not sing lead or backing vocals in "Biggest Part of Me," and he didn't write it, but he does have a footnote in its creation. When Ambrosia's David Pack scribed the song, the lead singer questioned his own lyrics: " There's a new sun arisin' /I can see a new horizon /That will keep me realizin'/You're the biggest part of me..." He wondered if it was too saccharine sweet for what he wanted, so he called the authority of such things, Michael McDonald. McDonald gave the thumbs up and the rest is Yacht Rock history.

3. HEART TO HEART [Kenny Loggins; 1982; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #15]

QUESTION: What do you get when your so-good-it-makes-you-wanna-cuss song features the Holy Trinity of Yacht Rock: Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald and David Foster? ANSWER: A masterpiece.

2. SAILING [Christopher Cross; 1980; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

Yacht Rock used to be known as the West Coast style, and "Sailing" is its finest example. Hearing it is akin to being on that yacht, wearing that silly captain's hat, and just chilling as the boat gently rocks with the breeze. Its accolades are many: Grammy Awards for Song of the Year, Record of the Year, Arrangemt of the Year and Best New Artist of the Year. Wow. And time has never erased it from our lives. Over the years you could hear the song on "WKRP in Cincinnati," "Family Guy," "Cobra Kai" and Hyundai TV commercials. I don't care who you are or where you are, "Sailing" automatically takes the listener "not far down from paradise." And, like me, you can find tranquility, just you wait and see.

And now for the #1 Yacht Rock song of all time...

1. WHAT A FOOL BELIEVES [The Doobie Brothers; 1978; Chart Position on the Billboard Hot 100: #1]

All right, Mr. and Mrs. Howell, our journey ends here, with this obvious Yacht Rock classic, a song written by our popes of YR, Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald, where the stars were aligned upon its creation and everything went right. It hit Number One on the charts as well as winning Song of the Year and Record of the Year Grammy Awards. But it's the delectable beat fusing light-jazz and lighter-funk combined with McDonald's smooth velvet vocals that takes "What a Fool Believes" into the coveted top spot. No one can argue that this is the genre's finest three minutes and forty-one seconds. When it pops up on the radio or on your playlist, the world doesn't seem to be such a bad place, not with sophisticated keen pop like this. You have to turn up the volume. And It rightfully stands tall at the Number One position, the bouncy Citizen Kane of Yacht Rock.

And that's that. Have a great summer!

Tampa/St. Petersburg SHOWS

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Yacht Rock Essentials: Songs That Should Be on Your Playlist

Table of Contents

To curate the perfect playlist for your next yachting adventure, you need to know what songs fall under the Yacht Rock genre. This genre is defined by a certain smooth and easy-listening sound that captures the essence of the laid-back coastal lifestyle. In this section, we will introduce you to the Yacht Rock genre and its defining characteristics, so that you can accurately create a playlist that will set the perfect ambiance for your yacht experience.

What is Yacht Rock genre?

Yacht Rock is a unique sub-genre of soft rock and pop music. It originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s and was popular among yacht owners, who would listen to it while sailing along the California coast. Yacht Rock is known for its smooth melodies, sophisticated lyrics, and polished production . Its mellow sound makes it perfect for relaxing or partying on a yacht!

If you want to appreciate Yacht Rock, you need an impeccable playlist. Classics like “Sailing” by Christopher Cross, “Rosanna” by Toto, and “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers should be included. Also add “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” by Hall & Oates, “The Way It Is” by Bruce Hornsby & The Range, and “Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree.

Yacht Rock has a connection to smooth jazz and soul. Examples of this are “Baby Come Back” by Player and Michael McDonald’s collaboration with Steely Dan on “Peg.” Make sure to add Bill Withers’ “Lovely Day” and George Benson’s “Breezin” for the full experience.

Make your summer unforgettable with these essential Yacht Rock songs . Saxophone solos, catchy choruses, and enough cheese to make Wisconsin jealous – get ready for smooth sailing!

Key Elements of Yacht Rock Songs

To understand the key elements of yacht rock songs, you need to listen for smooth vocals and harmonies, laid-back tempo and rhythms, saxophone and keyboards, and lyrics about love and life. These sub-sections are essential components of the yacht rock sound.

Smooth Vocals and Harmonies

Smooth vocals and rich harmonies are the epitome of yacht rock . It’s a subgenre of soft rock that started in the 70s and 80s. It got its name because it sounds luxurious, just like sailing on a yacht .

Vocalists like Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins are known for their melodic, effortless delivery . Yacht rock harmonies are often complex, with intricate backing vocals that give the sound depth. They have a jazz-influenced chord progression too.

Take for example Toto’s “Africa” . It’s one of the most popular yacht rock songs. It has a groovy beat, expert musicianship, and Michael McDonald-style refrains softened with harmonization, giving it a dreamy feel.

Yacht rock offers sophistication and quality production in easy-listening tunes. Perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying a martini on a yacht.

Laid-Back Tempo and Rhythms

Yacht rock songs – they don’t get much better. Tempo and rhythms are laid-back and the beats steady. The bass lines are melodic and the guitar riffs clean with a bluesy edge. Saxophones, wind instruments – they add class and sophistication. Vocalists have smooth voices that complete the musical arrangement.

Creating your own yacht rock song ? Make sure it’s steady but not too fast-paced. Melodic bass line, clean guitar riffs with a hint of bluesiness. Don’t forget the wind instruments too. Find a vocalist with a voice as smooth as velvet. Focus on these elements and you’ll have a true yacht rock sound that’ll take you back to the 70s and 80s.

Use of Saxophone and Keyboards

Saxophone and keyboards are fundamental for making those cool, soulful yacht rock sounds. They bring the best vibes, riffs and solos that make these tunes so catchy.

The saxophone often produces smooth and mellow solos that shape the main theme of the song.

Keyboards provide a lush texture to the rhythm section and add more character. Electric pianos like the Rhodes and Wurlitzer are favored by keyboardists for their unique timbre. Synthesizers are also essential for producing dynamic harmonies.

Saxophone and keyboard solos are often featured during instrumental breaks or the ending of the track. Examples of well-known songs that feature saxophone and keyboards include “What A Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers, “Sailing” by Christopher Cross and “Africa” by Toto.

Saxophone and keyboards are key for making yacht rock music sound real. They set the mood for a boat cruise with friends. It’s cool to see how contemporary musicians still use this classic ’70s/’80s sound in their music. It shows how timeless this genre is!

Fun fact: Christopher Cross’ hit single “Sailing” won three Grammys in 1980. So why write a love song when you can get a yacht and sail away with your partner?

Lyrics about Love and Life

Yacht Rock is all about a smooth and calming vibe. It has lovey-dovey and heartwarming lyrics that tell stories about life and love. These lyrics evoke emotions, taking us back to simpler times.

The words in these songs speak directly to our hearts. Think of Christopher Cross’ ‘Sailing – sailing takes me away, where I’ve always heard it could be.’ It gives a sense of adventure, an escape from reality.

Plus, the lyrics are timeless and still relevant today. Toto’s ‘Africa’ is a perfect example. It was released in 1982, but still meaningful. It talks about longing for someone and the beauty of Africa.

The lyrics come from songwriters’ personal accounts. Kenny Loggins’ ‘This is it’ was inspired by his divorce process. He poured his emotions into this beautiful song. Millions still listen to it today.

So, if you want to experience the emotion of Yacht Rock, load up your playlist with these top 10 classics . Your captain will thank you for it!

Top 10 Yacht Rock Songs That Should Be on Your Playlist

To curate the perfect yacht rock playlist, turn to this section on the top 10 yacht rock songs. With solutions such as “Sailing” by Christopher Cross, “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers, “Rosanna” by Toto, and more, you’ll have all the essentials covered. Get ready to sail away with the smooth sounds of yacht rock and these top picks.

• “Sailing” by Christopher Cross

Christopher Cross’ “Sailing” is a soft rock masterpiece. Its smooth vocals and gentle guitar will take you to the ocean, even if you’re miles away. The song tells a story of escapism, perfect for any sailor or adventurer.

As you listen to it, a sense of serenity washes over you. It’s great for when you want to relax and let your mind wander. The beautiful, simple melody and Cross’ emotive voice make it special.

“Sailing” is more than just a song. It’s an invitation to escape and go on an adventure. In 1981, it won Song of the Year at the Grammys , beating out Barbra Streisand and Billy Joel. Its success has inspired many yacht rock hits since.

It’s a must-have on any yacht rock playlist and should be on yours too.

“What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers

“What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers is an iconic yacht rock classic. It’s silky vocals, lush musical arrangement and captivating lyrics make it a must-have for a sailing soirée.

This bittersweet song speaks of a man who thinks he found love, only to realize that the woman never felt the same way. It’s a heartbreaking story that many can relate to, making it all the more powerful.

Listen closely to the intricate guitar work, lush keyboards and harmonizing vocals that blend together to bring you back to simpler times. Plus, the song was co-written by Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins , and it won two Grammy Awards !

So, if you’re looking to impress your friends with your yacht rock playlist , don’t forget to include “What a Fool Believes” – the ultimate soundtrack to your sailing get-together!

“Ride Like the Wind” by Christopher Cross

Cruise along with Christopher Cross’ timeless yacht rock classic, “ Ride Like the Wind .” With its groovy guitar riffs and smooth vocals, it’s a must-have for any yacht rock playlist. Picture yourself on the open sea with the wind in your hair and sun on your skin.

Another great addition is Cross’ “ Sailing ,” a 1980 hit that captures the essence of a tranquil ocean journey with its soothing melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.

Want something more upbeat? Check out Michael McDonald’s “ What a Fool Believes .” This Grammy-winning tune features infectious rhythms and soulful vocals that will have you dancing in no time.

An interesting fact – “Ride Like the Wind” was actually written for David Bowie, but he turned it down. Luckily, Christopher Cross put his own spin on it and created a timeless classic.

Be sure to include these top yacht rock classics on your playlist, along with other great tunes for a smooth and laid-back vibe. Toto’s ‘Rosanna’ is like taking a yacht ride, except you’re stuck in rush hour traffic!

“Rosanna” by Toto

The smooth, sultry tunes of Yacht Rock are a must for any sailing voyage. “Rosanna” by Toto is an infectious banger with a catchy chorus. Released in 1982, it peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 .

Listeners can’t resist tapping their toes to Jeff Porcaro ‘s drum intro. Bobby Kimball ‘s passionate vocals and Steve Lukather ‘s masterful guitar work make this song special. The lyrics tell a story about a woman named Rosanna who captures hearts.

Fun fact: this classic was inspired by actress Rosanna Arquette . Don’t miss out on adding this groove-filled gem to your Yacht Rock playlist! Robbie Dupree ‘s voice is so smooth, it could relax a baby on a yacht’s silk bed.

“Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree

“Steal Away” stands out from other tunes in the genre. Its laid-back vibe is perfect for chill evenings or sunny afternoons. You’ll be humming along to its infectious chorus in no time. It combines aspects of R&B, jazz, and rock music, and Dupree’s smooth vocals add a passionate touch.

If you haven’t added “Steal Away” to your Yacht Rock playlist , do it now! It’s a radio staple around the world. Don’t miss out on this iconic track from an unforgettable era of music. Ace’s ‘How Long’ is the perfect sunset over the ocean – you never want it to end.

“How Long” by Ace

“How Long” by Ace is a must-have for any Yacht Rock playlist! Paul Carrack’s smooth vocals combined with the funky instrumentals make it a perfect tune for cruising. It’s a classic, and impossible not to tap your toes to.

The song was written by John Woodhead – a founding member of Ace. It’s based on a real experience he had with an unfaithful bandmate. Despite the dark backstory, it’s catchy and a staple in both Yacht Rock and classic rock.

If you haven’t added it to your playlist yet, now’s the time! This track is sure to become a favorite. Don’t miss out on the chance to cruise along with this legendary tune – hit play today!

• “Africa” by Toto

“Africa” by Toto is a classic Yacht Rock track. Bobby Kimball’s smooth vocals, and the band’s compelling hooks and harmonies make it a Grammy-nominated success. The lyrics touch on longings, adventure, and cultural disconnect.

Pay close attention to David Hungate’s driving bassline, Jeff Porcaro’s crisp drumming, Steve Porcaro’s atmospheric keyboards, and Steve Lukather’s searing guitar solo. They all contribute to the texture of the track.

Create a Yacht Rock playlist with “Africa” and classics from Christopher Cross, Hall & Oates, and Michael McDonald. These artists each bring their own unique sound to Yacht Rock.

“I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” by Hall & Oates

Hall & Oates ‘ banger “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” is the ultimate yacht rock tune. With silky vocals and chill beats, this track is a must-have. It’s chorus, bassline, and guitar riffs are dreamy for sailing on the waves.

Plus, this song is special for mixing different genres: R&B and funk . No wonder it was a huge success when it first released in ’81 and it’s still a favorite now.

Pro Tip: To make it more yacht-y , pair it with a Pina Colada or Mojito. Enjoy! ‘Cause nothing says freedom like singing about cheating while yachting.

“Escape (The Pina Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes

Yacht Rock fans, add “Escape (The Pina Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes to your playlist! It’s the perfect tune for a beachy vibe. You won’t believe it, but this song was inspired by a classified ad Holmes saw in the newspaper!

For more classic Yacht Rock, try:

• “Footloose” by Kenny Loggins
• “What a Fool Believes” by Michael McDonald

 These songs have smooth harmonies, easygoing rhythms, and lyrics about living life with ease.

Bring these songs on your next boating trip and you’ll be in for a treat. They’re perfect for lazy afternoons and evening cocktail hours aboard your vessel. So kick back and enjoy ‘Cool Change,’ it’s like sailing on a smooth sea of nostalgia – but without the risk of getting seasick!

“Cool Change” by Little River Band

Stuck in a sea of Yacht Rock playlist choices? “Cool Change” by Little River Band is the answer. Saxophone and a wave-like rhythm make it perfect for smooth sailing. It’s iconic and timeless , with a lulling melody and storytelling lyrics. Plus, it’s approachable and fresh! Enjoy it during golden hour for the full effect. Take a deep breath and find solace on the open seas. Be mesmerized by the yacht rock classic that is “Cool Change” !

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Entertainment News

The greatest Yacht Rock songs of all time

How does one describe yacht rock? The folks at MasterClass did a pretty good job. Essentially, it's a component of soft rock, adult contemporary, and Album-oriented rock (AOR) all rolled into one. Popular in the late 1970s and into the '80s, there are some notable tunes of the ilk (smooth rhythms, light or "breezy" vocals, well-polished and produced) from earlier in the '70s that fall into this category.

In the spirit of easy listening fare, here is our ranking of 22 great yacht rock tunes.

20. "Lonely Boy" (1977), Andrew Gold

The Southern Californian's biggest hit, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Yacht rock tracks often tell stories, and "Lonely Boy" is one of the great story songs. Whether it's autobiographical in nature has always been ripe for a casual argument. Though Gold, who passed away in 2011 at age 59, repeatedly claimed this song about a boy who felt left out following the birth of his sister was not depicting his life. The 1970s were ripe for one-hit wonders in the United States, and Gold is not still forgotten. 

19. "I Love You" (1981), Climax Blues Band

"I Love You"  is a sweet, endearing ballad. The kind of song that probably sounded great via that portable 8-track cassette player on a catamaran during an early '80s' summer. From England, Climax Blues Band scored a top-15 hit with "I Love You." Love was a dependable and generally successful topic for artists within the soft/yacht rock genre. In fact, the song is still quite popular on lite rock and adult contemporary radio stations on your FM dial for those who still like to hear their music that way. 

18. "Rosanna" (1982), Toto

Toto rightfully has a place in the yacht rock world, but the band also broke into the top-40, FM radio, and MTV mainstream with the release of 1982's Toto IV . "Rosanna" was a big reason for the album's success, peaking at No. 2 on Billboard 's Hot 100 and winning the Record of the Year Grammy Award. Sure, it's not typical yacht rock fare, per se. It's certainly heavier than other popular tracks on this list, but it's certainly a product of AOR and still routinely played in dentist offices throughout America. 

17. "Love Will Keep Us Together" (1975), Captain & Tennille

There are those historians who believe the first true example of yacht rock came with this popular '70s staple from the "Captain"   Daryl Dragon  and his wife Toni Tennille. Now, Neil Sedaka  wrote "Love Will Keep Us Together" and originally recorded the song two years earlier. Still, the duo's version was  more poppy, with a carefree vibe  that's ideal for FM radio. While Captain & Tennille's cover won a Record of the Year Grammy Award, Sedaka has noted that the Beach Boys were one of the inspirations for the tune. This makes sense since many music critics, professionals, historians, etc.. have credited the yacht rock genre as somewhat of an offshoot from the Beach Boys' collective sound. 

16. "Escape (The Pina Colada Song)" (1979), Rupert Holmes

This No.1 Billboard Hot 100 hit for England's Rupert Holmes has achieved a steady cult following over the years. Perhaps, because of the unique title and conjured images of some warm, beach-laden paradise. Yacht rock's association with summer, water, and care-free living, as a backdrop to a romantic story, is one of its appealing aspects. This song is about a couple who ultimately patch up a rough relationship through personal ads . Any time somebody of a certain age sips one of these drinks, ideally at some Caribbean resort with the warm winds off the ocean blowing, "The Pina Colada Song" should come to mind.

15. "Reminiscing" (1978), Little River Band

Formed in Australia, the soft/pop rock and often yacht rock stylings of LRB were a hit in the United States. " Reminiscing " was the band's biggest hit in America, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Like many songs of this genre, "Reminiscing" is paced by the electric piano. Which also happened to be a staple of the Little River Band. Sure, it's not "breezy" like other yacht rock tunes, but Will Ferrell's Det. Allen Gamble is a big fan in The Other Guys (2010).

14. "Africa" (1982), Toto

Yes, more from Toto. If there's one popular Toto hit that whole-heartedly falls under the yacht rock moniker, it's " Africa ." The group's only song to top the Billboard Hot 100, and made a resurgence with Weezer's popular cover in recent years , "Africa," is the proper combination of mellow and poppy. It continues the Toto tradition of shared vocals, while the consistent synthesizer and keyboard presence, though more pronounced than the typical soft rock/adult contemporary vibe. 

13. "How Much I Feel" (1978), Ambrosia

L.A.'s Ambrosia, co-founded by vocalist/guitarist/songwriter David Pack and bassist Joe Puerta was all about the soft rock sound that surfaced in Southern California during the early 1970s. "How Much I Feel," from the group's third album Life Beyond L.A. , might have more of an adult contemporary vibe but certainly falls into the yacht rock category. It was one of the band's biggest hits, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. It's remained popular over the years, even being sampled by Kanye West.

12. "Peg" (1977), Steely Dan

Steely Dan was, in its prime, under the direction of celebrated songwriters Donald Fagan and Walter Becker, many things regarding a collective sound. Rock, pop, jazz, blues. Usually melodic, well within the soft-rock category. Songs like "Peg," from the 1977 masterpiece Aja , certainly has a yacht rock vibe, too. Perhaps most notably is that the great Michael McDonald, longtime frontman of the Doobie Brothers and driving singer-songwriter in the soft/yacht rock circles, provides backing vocals on the track. 

11. "Biggest Part of Me" (1980), Ambrosia

It really does get more yacht rock than this—smooth , with a flowing rhythm, precise, but not overbearing, harmonies . Not to mention the subtly stellar keyboard work from David C. Lewis. Throw in sessionist Ernie Watts' sax solo, and we have one great soft/yacht offering. It was the second of Ambrosia's two top-5 hits, reaching No. 3 on Billboard 's Hot 100. The version from the 1980s One Eighty  album runs about 5 1/2 minutes long. Talk about pure easy-listening joy.

10. "Summer Breeze" (1972), Seals & Crofts"

Long considered one of the great "summer songs" ever recorded. And summer-themed tunes from the 1970s tend to lend themselves to the yacht rock moniker. That said, Seals & Crofts were definitely a soft rock outfit, but with elements of folk and pop. "Summer Breeze" peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 during the 1970s and, again, is notable for being one of the earliest yacht rock offerings. Several other prominent artists, such as Ray Conniff, the Isley Brothers, and a stellar metal version from Type O Negative. 

9. "Ride Like the Wind" (1979), Christopher Cross

It's safe to say that Christopher Cross is the king of yacht rock. A brilliant songwriter and above-average guitar player, Cross could rock, but it's his definitive soft rock numbers that made him a star with lite-FM, adult contemporary and yacht rock fans. "Ride Like the Wind"  is the first single from Cross' stellar five-time Grammy-Award-winning self-titled debut from 1979. A more upbeat number about an outlaw running from the authorities, the track is less uplifting than other yacht rock tunes, but the vibe is the same. Of note, Michael McDonald provided backing vocals.

8. "Baby Come Back" (1977), Player

From John Friesen's steady drum intro to that durably underlaid bass line via Ron Moss to J.C. Crowley's keyboard presence begins the soft-rock brilliance of "Baby Come Back." With lyrics describing the yearning to reacquire a lost love and full-band harmonies, "Baby Come Back" just might be the quintessential offering of the yacht rock genre. It was the biggest hit for Player , the L.A.-based group that featured vocalist and song co-writer Peter Beckett, who was born in England. The tune topped the Billboard Hot 100 and still has a presence with its inclusion in films such as Transformers and  Black Adam.  Plus, various versions in popular TV shows like The Simpsons. American Dad  and King of the Hill.

7. "What a Fool Believes" (1979), The Doobie Brothers

The Doobie Brothers were a rather hard-rocking outfit before Michael McDonald joined up in the mid-1970s. The band was in need of an established songwriter, and McDonald delivered. However, with a more mellow, synthesizer/electric piano-driven sound that produced soft-rock gems like this one. Co-written by Kenny Loggins, who put out a version for himself, "What a Fool Believes" hit No. 1 on the Hot 100 in April 1979. Several critics have cited this as the best song in the vast Doobie Brothers catalog. 

6. "Steal Away" (1980), Robbie Dupree

If you're going to be a one-hit wonder, why not make it count? More than 30 years since its release, " Steal Away " can still be heard in elevators and office buildings throughout the United States -- or in the third season of Better Call Saul . Undeniably yacht rock, Dupree, born in Brooklyn, enjoyed success with the song during the summer of 1980 -- always a perfect time to enjoy the smooth, soothing sounds of a piece within this genre that peaked at No. 6 on Billboar d's Hot 100.

5. "Moonlight Feels Right" (1975), Starbuck

Here's a case where middle-aged and baby-boomer music fans probably remember the song but perhaps not the group who performed the track. That's OK. Atlanta's Starbuck is essentially a one-hit wonder thanks to "Moonlight Feels Right," which topped out at No. 3 on Billboard 's Hot 100. For those who remember this track for its lite-flowing beat, with lyrical references to the ocean, "Baltimore," and 'Ole Miss," and band member Bo Wagner marimba   solo, it might take them back to a simpler, more laidback time in their lives.

4. "Heart to Heart" (1982), Kenny Loggins

Perhaps more so than the previously mentioned "This Is It," "Heart to Heart" truly has all the requirements of a great yacht rock/soft rock tune. It was co-written by Michael McDonald, who also played the electric piano and provided backing vocals. David Foster, of Chicago songwriting and '80s ballad fame, also helped compose the tune, which features David Sanborn on saxophone. The track is one of Loggins' best-known hits, cracking the top 20 of the Hot 100.

3. "Lowdown" (1976), Boz Scaggs

Co-written by David Paich and featuring Jeff Porcaro on drums -- both of whom who go on to form the aforementioned Toto. One of Scaggs most well-known hits, "Lowdown"  has a bluesy and almost disco vibe. And a number we can imagine being played at some swanky yacht club party where the dance floor is filled, and more than a few people are sporting captain's hats. The song reached No. 3 on Billboard 's Hot 100 and also topped the Billboard Cash Box chart in the United States.

2. "Key Largo" (1981), Bertie Higgins

Yacht rock and one-hit wonders seem to go hand-in-hand. Higgins scored one in the early 1980s with this number that reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. The Florida native was inspired to write this song about trying to avoid a romantic breakup by the 1948 movie of the same name, starring Humphrey Bogart   and Lauren Bacall, who are referenced in the tune. Though Higgins never enjoyed the same individual success as a musician, the song has had a solid shelf life and remains a definitive moment in the yacht rock genre.

1. "Sailing" (1979), Christopher Cross

Sure, "Ride Like the Wind" is a gem, but the undisputed star of Cross' aforementioned debut album is the Hot 100-chart-topper "Sailing." It might be the definitive yacht rock song, capturing what Cross described, at the time, the "West Coast sound," which was long being composed, produced and performed, but maybe didn't have an appropriate moniker. The song won Grammys for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Arrangement of the Year, and was a big reason Cross earned the same award for Best New Artist.

A Chicago native, Jeff Mezydlo has professionally written about sports, entertainment and pop culture for nearly 30 years. If he could do it again, he'd attend Degrassi Junior High, Ampipe High and Grand Lakes University.

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• Best Yacht Rock Songs to Play on Your Boat

Whether sailing the high seas or cruising on a tranquil lake, there’s no denying the magical combination of boating and music. And nothing quite fits the bill like yacht rock songs when it comes to creating the perfect ambiance for your boat party. With their smooth melodies and laid-back vibes, yacht rock tunes are the ideal soundtrack to accompany your nautical adventures. 

Curate the ultimate playlist for your next boat party with these suggestions so you can set sail with style and groove to the sounds of the sea.

What Is Yacht Rock and Why Is It Perfect for Boating?

Yacht Rock emerged in the late ’70s and early ‘80s , epitomizing the era’s smooth, soft rock music. Characterized by its polished production, jazz-influenced arrangements and evocative lyrics, yacht rock often features leisure, escapism and coastal lifestyle themes. These songs would be played aboard luxury yachts, capturing the essence of sunny days, ocean breezes and carefree adventures on the water.

Yacht rock songs for boats’ relaxed yet sophisticated nature make it a perfect complement to any boating experience. As the boat glides through the water, the soothing rhythms of the best lake songs create an atmosphere of tranquility and joy, taking your boat party to a new level of enjoyment.

Crafting the Perfect Boating Playlist

To create the ultimate summer boating songs playlist, we considered various factors contributing to the perfect sailing ambiance. The selected songs boast uplifting beats, catchy melodies and lyrics that evoke images of boats, sailing and the sea. Moreover, we’ve included diverse songs to cater to different musical tastes.

Best Boat Songs of All-Time

With so many options out there, we’re excited to share our top songs about boats and sailing and the best songs to listen to on a boat. 

• “Sailing” by Christopher Cross: With its gentle guitar strums and Christopher Cross’s velvety vocals, “Sailing” is an anthem for seafarers. The song’s serene melody and poetic lyrics encapsulate the feeling of being on the open water, making it a must-have for your boat party playlist. As you cruise along, “Sailing” will have everyone swaying to the rhythm, embracing the true spirit of yacht rock.
• “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes: A yacht rock classic, “Escape” brings a touch of whimsy to your boat party. This catchy tale of love and adventure pairs perfectly with the carefree ambiance of boating. The song’s playful vibe and sing-along chorus will have your guests joining in the fun, creating unforgettable memories on the water.
• “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass: “Brandy” is a timeless yacht rock gem that narrates the tale of a sailor’s love for a barmaid. Its upbeat tempo and memorable hooks make it an essential addition to your boat party playlist. As you listen to the story unfold, you’ll be transported to coastal taverns and endless maritime horizons.
• “Yacht Rock” by JD & The Straight Shot: The eponymous “Yacht Rock” is a modern tribute to the genre. With smooth instrumentals and polished vocals, this song embodies the very essence of summer boating songs. As you sail into the sunset, “Yacht Rock” will warmly embrace you, ensuring a truly unforgettable boat party experience.

• “Sail On” by Commodores: Smooth and soulful, “Sail On” by the Commodores is a yacht rock favorite that perfectly captures the essence of sailing. The mesmerizing vocals of Lionel Richie and the mellow instrumentation make it a sublime addition to your boat party playlist. As you sail into the horizon, “Sail On” will evoke feelings of serenity and nostalgia.
• “Southern Cross” by Crosby, Stills & Nash: “Southern Cross” is a yacht rock sensation that vividly depicts a sailor’s journey and longing for adventure. With its dreamy harmonies and evocative lyrics, this song embodies the wanderlust spirit of boating. As you navigate the waters, “Southern Cross” will ignite a sense of exploration and freedom.
• “Key Largo” by Bertie Higgins: Set the perfect mood for your boat party with “Key Largo” by Bertie Higgins. This romantic ballad takes inspiration from the beautiful Florida island, offering a gentle and relaxing vibe. As you anchor in tranquil waters, “Key Largo” will fill the air with enchanting melodies, creating a magical experience on your boat.
• “Into the Night” by Benny Mardones: “Into the Night” is a yacht rock classic that weaves a tale of passion and romance under the moonlight. With its soulful vocals and captivating melody, this song is perfect for setting a dreamy and intimate atmosphere at your boat party. As the stars twinkle above, “Into the Night” will take you on a magical journey through the night skies.
• “Reminiscing” by Little River Band: As the sun sets on your boat party, let the nostalgic vibes of “Reminiscing” fill the air. This boating playlist gem has smooth harmonies and a gentle rhythm that will transport you back to cherished memories and create an ambiance of camaraderie and friendship. It’s the perfect tune to share stories and laughter with your guests.
• “Moonlight Feels Right” by Starbuck: “Moonlight Feels Right” is a funky and fun yacht rock song that will have everyone dancing on deck. With its catchy marimba riffs and chorus, this tune infuses your boat party with playful energy and excitement. So, let loose and dance under the moonlit sky as “Moonlight Feels Right” fills the night with joy.

Honorable Mentions

Whether you use them to create a more extensive playlist or keep them on standby for future voyages, these yacht rock gems will elevate your boat party’s ambiance. Let the melodies of these honorable mentions serenade you as you create unforgettable memories on your nautical journey. Here are our best boat party songs: 

• “Dance with Me” by Orleans: A captivating blend of folk and yacht rock, “Dance with Me” offers a smooth and romantic melody that sets the perfect tone for a slow dance on deck. This timeless classic will create a memorable moment for you and your guests as you sway together beneath the stars.
• “Cool Change” by Little River Band: “Cool Change” is an introspective Yacht Rock anthem that captures the essence of tranquility and self-discovery. Its calming rhythm and soul-stirring lyrics make it an excellent addition to your boat party playlist, especially during introspection on the open waters.
• “Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree: The captivating vocals and soft rock style of “Steal Away” make it a must-have on your Yacht Rock boat party playlist. This tune exudes a sense of freedom and adventure, making it the perfect companion as you explore new horizons on your boat journey.
• “On and On” by Stephen Bishop: Stephen Bishop’s soothing voice and the mellow instrumentation of “On and On” create an atmosphere of pure relaxation. As you glide across the water, this yacht rock classic will add a touch of serenity to your boat party experience.

As you set sail on your boat party adventure, let the smooth melodies of yacht rock be your trusted companions. The carefully curated playlist will transport you and your guests to a world of blissful boating, where the worries of the shore are left behind. Grab your sunglasses, feel the wind in your hair and embark on a memorable journey with the ultimate yacht rock playlist for your boat party.

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60+ Best Yacht Rock Songs of All Time

Published April 28, 2023

Yacht rock is a subgenre of soft rock. It became prevalent in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and while it’s no longer as popular now, it still continues to be loved by fans today.

It’s best known for the jazzy arrangements, sophisticated harmonies, and lyrics that would often encapsulate the laid-back lifestyle of yacht owners. Needless to say, yacht rock targets a specific niche, and even those outside of that niche can enjoy the songs the genre offers.

If that sounds like you, then you’re in luck. In this post, we’ve compiled a list of the best yacht rock songs of all time, from deep cuts to classics that came out from 1972 to 1990.

67 Best Yacht Rock Songs List

• “Summer Breeze” by Seals and Crofts (1972)
• “If You Leave Me Now” by Chicago (1976)
• “Sara Smile” by Hall & Oates (1976)
• “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers (1978)
• “Peg” by Steely Dan (1978)
• “Ride Like the Wind” by Christopher Cross (1979)
• “Sailing” by Christopher Cross (1979)
• “Escape (The Pina Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes (1979)
• “I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near)” by Michael McDonald (1982)
• “Africa” by Toto (1982)
• “Cool Change” by Little River Band (1982)
• “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” by Hall & Oates (1982)
• “Lonely Boy” by Andrew Gold (1982)
• “Rock with You” by Michael Jackson (1982)
• “Slow Dancer” by Boz Scaggs (1982)
• “Baby Come Back” by Player (1983)
• “Say You Love Me” by Fleetwood Mac (1983)
• “All Out of Love” by Air Supply (1984)
• “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)” by Christopher Cross (1984)
• “Biggest Part of Me” by Ambrosia (1984)
• “Can’t We Try” by Dan Hill and Vonda Shepard (1984)
• “Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest (1984)
• “Just the Two of Us” by Grover Washington Jr. & Bill Withers (1984)
• “Magnet and Steel” by Walter Egan (1984)
• “One on One” by Hall & Oates (1984)
• “Private Eyes” by Hall & Oates (1984)
• “Ride Captain Ride” by Blues Image (1984)
• “When You Love a Woman” by Journey (1984)
• “When I Need You” by Leo Sayer (1985)
• “You Belong to Me” by Carly Simon (1985)
• “Foolish Heart” by Steve Perry (1986)
• “More Than a Feeling” by Boston (1986)
• “On and On” by Stephen Bishop (1986)
• “Reminiscing” by Little River Band (1986)
• “We’re All Alone” by Boz Scaggs (1986)
• “Can’t Hide Love” by Earth, Wind & Fire (1987)
• “Just You and I” by Melissa Manchester (1987)
• “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers (1987)
• “Sweet Baby James” by James Taylor (1987)
• “The Air That I Breathe” by The Hollies (1987)
• “Touch Me in the Morning” by Diana Ross (1987)
• “Give Me the Night” by George Benson (1988)
• “Lady Love Me (One More Time)” by George Benson (1988)
• “Time Passages” by Al Stewart (1988)
• “Do That to Me One More Time” by Captain & Tennille
• “How Long” by Ace (1989)
• “I’ll Be Over You” by Toto (1989)
• “Kiss on My List” by Hall & Oates (1989)
• “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” by Air Supply (1989)
• “On My Own” by Patti LaBelle and Michael McDonald (1989)
• “Rosanna” by Toto (1989)
• “The One You Love” by Glenn Frey (1989)
• “Through the Fire” by Chaka Khan (1989)
• “What You Won’t Do for Love” by Bobby Caldwell (1989)
• “Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)” by Phil Collins (1990)
• “Baby, I Love Your Way/Freebird Medley” by Will to Power (1990)
• “Easy” by The Commodores (1990)
• “Higher Love” by Steve Winwood (1990)
• “I Keep Forgettin'” by Warren G featuring Michael McDonald (1990)
• “I’ll Be There” by The Escape Club (1990)
• “Lido Shuffle” by Boz Scaggs (1990)
• “Missing You” by John Waite (1990)
• “Smooth Operator” by Sade (1990)
• “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra (1990)
• “Waiting for a Girl Like You” by Foreigner (1990)
• “We Built This City” by Starship (1990)
• “Your Wildest Dreams” by The Moody Blues (1990)

10 Yacht Rock-Inspired Songs from the 2010s and Beyond

While yacht rock is often associated with the late 1970s and early 1980s, there have been some recent songs that were able to capture the yacht rock vibe or sound. They’re now quite popular among fans of this genre. Here’s a yacht rock songs list of these songs:

• “This Love” by Taylor Swift (2014)
• “On the Rocks” by The Last Shadow Puppets (2016)
• “Too Late” by Washed Out (2017)
• “If You Want It” by Slightly Stoopid (2018)
• “Feels Like Summer” by Childish Gambino (2018)
• “Shallow” by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper (2018)
• “So Caught Up” by The Teskey Brothers (2019)
• “Joanna” by Joji (2019)
• “Lucky Ones” by Logan Prescott (2020)
• “Midnight Sky” by Miley Cyrus (2020)

The Bottom Line

Yacht rock has proven to be a timeless genre that has, for decades, captured the hearts of not only yacht enjoyers and owners, but also music lovers in general. Whether you’re a newcomer to yacht rock or a long-time enthusiast of the genre, the top yacht rock songs in this list will offer a glimpse into the melodic, smooth sound that defines the yacht genre.

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Playlist of the Week: Top 100 Songs of Yacht Rock

Each week we’re featuring a playlist to get your mind going and help you assemble your favorites. This week we take a deep dive into the soft rock hits of the late ’70s and early ’80s, which have come to be known in some circles as Yacht Rock. The term Yacht Rock generally refers to music in the era where yuppies enjoyed sipping champaign on their yachts — a concept explored in the original web series Yacht Rock, which debuted in 2005 and has developed a cult following. Artists most commonly thought of in the Yacht Rock era include Michael McDonald, Ambrosia, 10cc, Toto, Kenny Loggins, Boz Scaggs, and Christopher Cross. Yacht Rock has become the muse of a great number of tribute bands, and is the current subject of a short-run channel on Sirius XM.

Here is a stab at the Top 100 Songs of Yacht Rock — not necessarily in rank order, with a few more added for honorable mention. We welcome your comments. What songs are ranked too high? What songs are ranked too low? What songs are missing? Make your case. Also, please let us know concepts for playlists you’d like to see — or share a favorite list of your own.

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36 Best Songs About Yacht Rock Song You Will Love

List of the top 36 songs about yacht rock song you will love.

Best Songs About Yacht Rock Song You Will Love

Yacht Rock is a subgenre of soft rock that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It is characterized by smooth melodies, polished production, and an emphasis on vocal harmonies. Yacht Rock has since become synonymous with the luxurious lifestyle associated with yacht culture and has gained a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many artists embracing the sound and creating their own modern takes on the genre. One of the key features of Yacht Rock is its use of saxophones, electric pianos, and smooth guitars to create a laid-back and groovy sound that transports listeners to a warm and breezy seaside.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best songs about Yacht Rock that you’ll love. These songs capture the essence of Yacht Rock with their smooth melodies, catchy hooks, and laid-back rhythms. From classic hits like “Sailing” by Christopher Cross to more recent tracks like “California Sunrise” by Dirty Heads, these songs are sure to transport you to a world of sun, sea, and sand. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Yacht Rock or just discovering the genre for the first time, these songs are the perfect soundtrack for your next beachside adventure or yacht party. So, grab a Mai Tai, kick off your shoes, and get ready to sail away with these amazing Yacht Rock songs.

Table of Contents

1. Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl) – Looking Glass

“Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” is a soft rock classic by the American band Looking Glass, released in 1972. The song tells the story of a barmaid named Brandy, who works in a seaport town and captures the attention of many sailors. Despite her popularity, Brandy remains loyal to her true love, who is a sailor that can only visit her sporadically. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, combined with its bittersweet lyrics, make it a timeless favorite. The lead singer’s smooth vocals and the use of the saxophone in the instrumental break add to the song’s charm. “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” has been covered by various artists over the years and has appeared in several films and TV shows, solidifying its place in popular culture.

2. Ride Like the Wind – Christopher Cros

“Ride Like the Wind” is a 1979 hit song by Christopher Cross, a singer-songwriter from Texas. The song is a fusion of soft rock and funk, with a prominent use of electric guitar and brass instruments. The lyrics tell the story of a man on the run, pursued by unknown forces, who is determined to keep moving forward and “ride like the wind” to escape his past. Cross’s powerful and emotive vocals are a standout feature of the song, complemented by the catchy chorus and driving beat. “Ride Like the Wind” won Cross a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1981 and remains one of his most popular songs, having been covered by several other artists and featured in various films and TV shows.

3. Rosanna – Toto

“Rosanna” is a classic rock song by the American band Toto, released in 1982. The song is a mixture of rock, pop, and funk with a distinctive piano and guitar riff. It features intricate instrumental sections with complex rhythms, harmonies, and solos, making it a showcase for the band’s musical prowess. The song’s lyrics are about a woman named Rosanna, with whom the lead singer is infatuated, but also express the singer’s doubts about the relationship. The chorus is an infectious, sing-along melody that has become one of the band’s signature hits. “Rosanna” won multiple Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year, and helped Toto establish themselves as one of the most successful bands of the 1980s.

4. Peg – Steely Dan

“Peg” is a classic jazz rock song by Steely Dan, released in 1977 as part of their album “Aja.” The song features a tight horn section, intricate guitar riffs, and smooth vocal harmonies. The lyrics are playful and enigmatic, telling the story of a mysterious woman named Peg who has captivated the attention of the narrator. The song’s infectious groove and catchy chorus make it a fan favorite, and it has been covered by numerous artists over the years. “Peg” showcases Steely Dan’s signature blend of jazz, rock, and pop, and remains a timeless classic of 1970s music.

5. Year of the Cat – Al Stewart

“Year of the Cat” by Al Stewart is a nostalgic and dreamy song that takes the listener on a musical journey. The song features intricate guitar work and poetic lyrics that tell a story of a romantic encounter in a mystical setting. The chorus is instantly recognizable and catchy, making it a beloved classic of the 1970s. With its unique blend of folk, rock, and pop, “Year of the Cat” stands the test of time and continues to captivate audiences. It remains one of Al Stewart’s most popular and enduring songs, showcasing his skill as a songwriter and storyteller.

6. Private Eyes – Hall & Oates

“Private Eyes” is a popular song by American duo Hall & Oates, released in 1981. The song features a catchy chorus with a strong beat and a synthesizer riff that became an instant classic of 80s pop. The lyrics describe a man who wants to keep his relationship private, but knows his partner is cheating on him. The song’s upbeat rhythm and catchy melody contrast with the darker themes of infidelity and secrecy, making it an enduring classic of the era. “Private Eyes” became a top 10 hit in the United States and a fan favorite at Hall & Oates’ concerts.

7. Southern Cross – Crosby, Stills and Nash

“Southern Cross” is a classic rock song by Crosby, Stills & Nash. Released in 1982, the song features catchy guitar riffs and harmonious vocals that celebrate the joys of sailing and traveling. The lyrics tell the story of a man who sails across the ocean in search of love and meaning, encountering different cultures and beautiful landscapes along the way. The chorus is especially memorable, with its catchy melody and lyrics that capture the sense of adventure and freedom that comes with exploring the world. “Southern Cross” has since become a beloved classic rock anthem, inspiring generations of listeners to chase their dreams and explore the world around them.

8. What a Fool Believes – The Doobie Brothers

“What a Fool Believes” is a classic rock song by The Doobie Brothers that was released in 1979. The song was written by Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins and was a huge hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song features a smooth and catchy melody, with McDonald’s distinctive vocals taking center stage. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is trying to reconnect with a former lover, only to realize that their relationship was never as strong as he thought it was. The song’s upbeat tempo and memorable chorus make it a beloved classic rock staple.

9. Just the Two of Us – Bill Withers and Grover Washington Jr

“Just the Two of Us” is a classic R&B song by the legendary singer Bill Withers and the jazz saxophonist Grover Washington. Released in 1981, the song features Withers’ soulful vocals and Washington’s smooth saxophone playing, creating a perfect blend of R&B and jazz. The lyrics tell a story of two people who have found love and are enjoying each other’s company in a peaceful and intimate setting. The song is known for its catchy chorus, which features the memorable line “Just the two of us, we can make it if we try.” It has become a timeless classic, being covered by numerous artists over the years and remaining a beloved track for generations. Withers and Washington’s musical chemistry shines through in this laid-back, romantic song that is sure to make you feel warm and fuzzy inside.

10. Ventura Highway – America and George Martin

“Ventura Highway” is a timeless classic by America and produced by George Martin. The song is known for its soothing acoustic guitar riffs, soft harmonies, and mellow vocals that create a dreamy and nostalgic atmosphere. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery of a road trip on Ventura Highway, capturing the sense of adventure, freedom, and the beauty of nature. The chorus “Alligator lizards in the air” and “Canyons everywhere” adds to the enchanting quality of the song. George Martin’s production blends the folk and pop elements seamlessly, resulting in a perfect balance of instrumentation and vocals. The song’s gentle and optimistic vibe has made it a staple of soft rock and easy listening radio stations for decades. It’s no wonder that “Ventura Highway” continues to be a beloved track that is often included in road trip playlists and summer jams.

11. Lowdown – Boz Scaggs

“Lowdown” by Boz Scaggs is a smooth, funky tune with a catchy bassline and groovy guitar riffs. The song features Scaggs’ soulful vocals and the famous saxophone solo by David Sanborn. It was a big hit in the 1970s and continues to be a beloved classic today. The lyrics describe a woman who is “keepin’ her lowdown,” with the narrator urging her to “come on up” and “show some of that love you got.” The song’s infectious rhythm and soulful delivery make it a standout in the Yacht Rock genre, and its influence can be heard in the music of many contemporary artists.

12. Summer Breeze – Seals and Crofts

“Summer Breeze” is a classic soft rock song by the American duo Seals and Crofts. Released in 1972, the song has since become a staple of easy listening radio stations and is considered a quintessential summer tune. The song features a gentle acoustic guitar melody and sweet harmonies, evoking the lazy days of summer and the feeling of being carefree. The lyrics describe a lazy afternoon spent relaxing with a lover, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the soothing sound of the breeze. The chorus, with its simple yet catchy melody, is instantly recognizable and has become a sing-along anthem. “Summer Breeze” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including the Isley Brothers and Type O Negative, and its popularity has endured for decades.

13. The Boys of Summer – Don Henley

“The Boys of Summer” is a classic 80s rock song by Don Henley, the former drummer and lead vocalist of the Eagles. The song is a nostalgic reflection on lost love and the passing of time, set against a backdrop of summertime imagery. The upbeat and catchy melody, combined with Henley’s distinctive voice and the iconic guitar riff, make the song instantly recognizable and a staple of classic rock radio. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, exploring themes of regret, nostalgia, and the search for meaning in a changing world. The song’s music video, featuring footage of a young boy playing baseball and images of the beach, further enhances its nostalgic and wistful tone. “The Boys of Summer” remains a beloved classic rock anthem and a testament to Henley’s enduring talent as a songwriter and performer.

14. Valerie – Steve Winwood

“Valerie” is a lively and upbeat pop-rock song by Steve Winwood. The song has a distinct 80s sound, featuring a prominent synthesizer riff, a catchy guitar hook, and a driving drumbeat. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is trying to get over a failed relationship and is seeking solace in the company of a woman named Valerie. Winwood’s soulful vocals and the energetic instrumentation create a fun and danceable atmosphere, making “Valerie” a classic party anthem that still resonates with audiences today. The song was originally released in 1982 and has since been covered by several artists, including Mark Ronson and Amy Winehouse, bringing it to a new generation of music lovers.

15. The Logical Song – Supertramp

“The Logical Song” is a classic rock song by the British band Supertramp. It was released in 1979 and became one of their biggest hits, reaching the top 10 in several countries. The song features a catchy melody and thought-provoking lyrics that explore the pressures of modern society and the loss of innocence. It starts with a simple piano riff and gradually builds up with layers of instrumentation, including synthesizers, saxophones, and guitars. The vocals are smooth and expressive, and the harmonies add an extra layer of richness to the song. The bridge section is particularly memorable, with its poignant lyrics and soaring vocal melody. Overall, “The Logical Song” is a timeless classic that showcases Supertramp’s talent for crafting memorable and meaningful pop songs.

16. Listen to the Music – The Doobie Brothers

“Listen to the Music” is a classic rock song by The Doobie Brothers, released in 1972. It features a distinctive guitar riff and catchy lyrics about the power of music to bring people together. The song became one of the band’s biggest hits and has since become a beloved classic rock anthem. Its upbeat tempo and feel-good lyrics make it a perfect summertime tune for road trips, barbecues, and hanging out with friends. The Doobie Brothers’ signature harmonies and tight instrumentation are on full display in “Listen to the Music,” making it an instantly recognizable and timeless classic rock song that continues to be popular today.

17. Dirty Work – Steely Dan

“Dirty Work” is a smooth and funky song by the American rock band Steely Dan. The track features a groovy rhythm and catchy lyrics that make you want to dance. With its combination of electric guitar riffs and jazzy horns, the song embodies the band’s signature blend of rock, jazz, and funk. The vocals are delivered with a smooth and cool tone, adding to the laid-back atmosphere of the track. The lyrics tell a story of a man who has been cheated on and is now seeking revenge. The song’s catchy chorus, “You got to try a little tenderness, take some time to close the deal,” has become a classic in its own right. Overall, “Dirty Work” is a standout track in Steely Dan’s discography and continues to be a fan favorite.

18. Baker Street – Gerry Rafferty

“Baker Street” by Gerry Rafferty is a soft rock classic that features an instantly recognizable saxophone riff that has become iconic in pop culture. The song was released in 1978 and has since become one of Rafferty’s most well-known and beloved tracks. The smooth, melancholic melody of the saxophone is juxtaposed with the introspective lyrics, which explore themes of disillusionment, loneliness, and the search for meaning in life. Rafferty’s soulful vocals bring a sense of yearning and emotional depth to the song, making it an enduring favorite among music lovers of all ages. “Baker Street” has been covered by many artists over the years and has been used in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its place as a timeless classic of the soft rock genre.

19. Baby Come Back – Player

“Baby Come Back” by Player is a classic soft rock song that was released in 1977. The song starts with a catchy guitar riff and is followed by a simple drumbeat, bass line, and smooth vocals. The lyrics are about a man who is pleading with his lover to come back to him and give their relationship another chance. The chorus is simple and memorable, with the words “Baby come back, any kind of fool could see, there was something in everything about you.” The song’s upbeat melody and memorable lyrics make it a perfect example of the yacht rock genre, which was popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. “Baby Come Back” has stood the test of time and is still enjoyed by audiences today, making it a timeless classic in the world of soft rock music.

20. Dreams – Fleetwood Mac

“Dreams” is a classic hit song by the British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac. Written by vocalist Stevie Nicks, it was released in 1977 as a single from their critically acclaimed album, “Rumours”. The song features a catchy and memorable melody, with Nicks’ distinctive vocals and poetic lyrics about love, loss, and the power of dreams. The song’s opening line, “Now here you go again, you say you want your freedom”, has become iconic in popular culture. “Dreams” became a massive commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remaining there for one week. It was also the band’s only number one hit single in the US. The song’s enduring popularity has been cemented by its use in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years, as well as its recent resurgence on social media platforms like TikTok.

21. So Into You – Atlanta Rhythm Section

“So Into You” by Atlanta Rhythm is a soulful and romantic love song that captures the intense feelings of infatuation and desire that can overwhelm a person in the early stages of a relationship. The song features smooth and melodic guitar riffs, funky bass lines, and a lively drum beat that sets a playful and upbeat tone.

The lyrics are filled with expressions of deep affection, as the singer croons about being consumed by the object of his affections, unable to resist their charm and allure. The chorus is particularly catchy, with the singer declaring his love and devotion, and his desire to be close to his partner.

The song’s overall mood is nostalgic, evoking the carefree and optimistic vibe of the late 1970s, when it was first released. It has since become a classic, beloved by fans of classic rock and soul, and has been covered by many artists over the years.

Overall, “So Into You” is a timeless love song that captures the excitement and passion of new romance, and is sure to put a smile on the face of anyone who hears it.

22. Sailing – Christopher Cross

“Sailing” by Christopher Cross is a soft rock classic that embodies the carefree and optimistic spirit of the 1980s. The song features mellow guitar chords, smooth keyboard melodies, and a gentle, flowing rhythm that conjures up images of calm seas and open skies.

The lyrics are poetic and dreamy, with Cross singing about the joys of sailing, both literally and metaphorically. He describes the feeling of being free and unencumbered, and the beauty of exploring the world with an open heart and mind.

The chorus is particularly memorable, with Cross’s soothing vocals reaching soaring heights as he sings about the endless possibilities that come with setting sail. It’s a song that is both uplifting and comforting, and has become a favorite of many listeners over the years.

Overall, “Sailing” is a classic rock ballad that captures the spirit of adventure and optimism that defined the 1980s. Its timeless melody and inspiring lyrics make it a song that continues to resonate with listeners today, and it remains one of Christopher Cross’s most beloved works.

23. I Can’t Tell You Why – Eagles

“I Can’t Tell You Why” by Eagles is a soulful and introspective ballad that explores the complex emotions of a failed relationship. The song features a smooth and sultry melody, with intricate guitar riffs and a gentle, steady rhythm that sets a melancholy tone.

The lyrics are poignant and heartfelt, with the singer struggling to find the words to explain why his love has faded away. He expresses his regret and sadness over the loss of what was once a meaningful connection, and the difficulty of moving on.

The chorus is particularly moving, with the singer lamenting his inability to explain why he no longer feels the same way. The song is a masterclass in emotional restraint, with the subtle shifts in the melody and the singer’s soft, plaintive vocals conveying the depth of his pain.

Overall, “I Can’t Tell You Why” is a poignant and evocative song that captures the bittersweet feelings of love and loss. Its timeless melody and haunting lyrics have made it a favorite of Eagles fans for decades, and it remains a classic example of the band’s unique blend of rock and soul.

24. How Long – Ace

“How Long” by Ace is a catchy and upbeat pop-rock song that captures the spirit of the 1970s with its infectious grooves and clever lyrics. The song features a lively rhythm, with a driving bassline and funky guitar riffs that get your toes tapping and your head nodding.

The lyrics are playful and witty, with the singer addressing a lover who has been unfaithful and questioning how long the affair has been going on. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the catchy refrain of “How long has this been going on?” becoming a hook that is impossible to forget.

The song is an excellent example of the clever wordplay and infectious melodies that were a hallmark of 1970s pop music, and it remains a favorite of many fans of that era. Its upbeat tempo and clever lyrics make it a perfect song for dancing, singing along, or just enjoying the fun and carefree vibes of classic rock.

Overall, “How Long” is a classic rock gem that captures the energy and spirit of a bygone era. Its catchy melodies and clever lyrics have made it a favorite of music fans for over four decades, and it remains a beloved part of the pop-rock canon.

25. Reminiscing – Little River Band

“Reminiscing” by Little River Band is a smooth and soulful rock ballad that evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing for the past. The song features a melodic guitar riff, a steady drum beat, and soothing vocals that create a relaxing and dreamy atmosphere.

The lyrics are introspective and contemplative, with the singer reflecting on fond memories of a past love and the time they shared together. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer lamenting the loss of that relationship and expressing a desire to go back to those happy times.

The song’s overall mood is wistful and melancholic, with a sense of regret and yearning for what was lost. Its gentle melody and introspective lyrics make it a perfect song for reflection and reminiscing, and it has become a beloved classic of soft rock.

Overall, “Reminiscing” is a timeless song that captures the bittersweet feelings of looking back on a past love. Its soothing melodies and evocative lyrics make it a favorite of fans of soft rock and a perfect song to listen to when in a reflective mood.

26. Smoke From a Distant Fire – The Sanford/Townsend Band

“Smoke From a Distant Fire” by The Stanford/Townsend Band is a bluesy and soulful rock song that captures the gritty energy of the 1970s. The song features a funky guitar riff, a driving bassline, and powerful vocals that exude a sense of urgency and intensity.

The lyrics are vivid and descriptive, with the singer describing the feeling of being caught in the middle of a romantic betrayal. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the haunting refrain of “Smoke from a distant fire” capturing the sense of mystery and uncertainty that surrounds the situation.

The song is a classic example of the blues-infused rock that was popular in the 1970s, with its raw energy and powerful vocals making it a standout of the era. It has become a beloved classic of classic rock, and remains a favorite of fans of that genre.

Overall, “Smoke From a Distant Fire” is a powerful and evocative song that captures the intense emotions of a romantic betrayal. Its driving rhythm and bluesy melodies make it a favorite of fans of classic rock, and its haunting lyrics and powerful vocals have made it a timeless classic of the genre.

27. Africa – Toto

“Africa” by Toto is a classic rock song that has become a beloved anthem for generations of music fans. The song features a distinctive intro with atmospheric synthesizers, followed by a driving drum beat and soaring vocals that are both powerful and emotive.

The lyrics are evocative and dreamy, describing a mystical vision of Africa that is both alluring and mysterious. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer yearning to return to this enchanted land and rediscover its magic.

The song is a classic example of the epic rock ballad, with its soaring melodies and evocative lyrics capturing the spirit of adventure and exploration. It has become an iconic part of the 1980s music scene, and its timeless appeal has made it a favorite of fans of all ages.

Overall, “Africa” is a classic rock masterpiece that has captured the imaginations of music fans around the world. Its powerful rhythms, emotive vocals, and dreamy lyrics make it a perfect song for those seeking to escape the mundane and discover the magic of the unknown.

28. Sail On, Sailor – The Beach Boys

“Sail On, Sailor” by The Beach Boys is a soulful and introspective rock song that features powerful vocals and soaring harmonies. The song opens with a bluesy piano riff and a driving drum beat, creating a mood of urgency and intensity that runs throughout the track.

The lyrics are introspective and contemplative, with the singer reflecting on the ups and downs of life and the need to keep moving forward despite the challenges. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the powerful harmonies capturing the sense of determination and resilience that is at the heart of the song.

The song is a classic example of the soul-infused rock that was popular in the 1970s, with its emotive vocals and bluesy melodies making it a standout of the era. It has become a beloved classic of classic rock, and remains a favorite of fans of that genre.

Overall, “Sail On, Sailor” is a powerful and evocative song that captures the spirit of perseverance and determination. Its powerful harmonies and introspective lyrics make it a favorite of fans of classic rock, and its timeless appeal has made it a beloved classic of the genre.

29. Still the One – Orleans

“Still The One” by Orleans is a classic rock song that has become a beloved anthem for generations of music fans. The song features a catchy guitar riff and upbeat tempo, creating a mood of joy and celebration that runs throughout the track.

The lyrics are heartfelt and romantic, with the singer proclaiming their enduring love for their partner and their joy at having stood the test of time. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer proudly declaring that their partner is still the one that they love after all these years.

The song is a classic example of the upbeat rock that was popular in the 1970s, with its catchy melodies and optimistic lyrics making it a standout of the era. It has become an iconic part of the classic rock scene, and its timeless appeal has made it a favorite of fans of all ages.

Overall, “Still The One” is a classic rock masterpiece that captures the enduring spirit of true love. Its upbeat rhythms, catchy melodies, and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect song for those seeking to celebrate the joys of a long-lasting relationship, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre.

30. Sara Smile – Daryl Hall & John Oates

“Sara Smile” by Daryl Hall & John Oates is a classic soulful rock song that features smooth vocals, a catchy melody, and emotive lyrics. The song begins with a mellow piano and guitar intro, setting the mood for the introspective lyrics that follow.

The lyrics are poetic and romantic, with the singer expressing his love and admiration for his partner, Sara. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer crooning that he will always be there to comfort and support Sara whenever she needs him.

The song is a classic example of the soulful rock that was popular in the 1970s, with its smooth vocals and emotive melodies making it a standout of the era. It has become a beloved classic of classic rock, and remains a favorite of fans of that genre.

Overall, “Sara Smile” is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of love and devotion. Its smooth rhythms, emotive lyrics, and catchy melody make it a perfect song for those seeking to express their love and appreciation for their partners, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre.

31. Crazy Love – Poco

“Crazy Love” by Poco is a classic rock ballad that features heartfelt vocals, tender melodies, and emotive lyrics. The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar riff and soft percussion, creating a mellow and romantic atmosphere that runs throughout the track.

The lyrics are poetic and romantic, with the singer expressing his deep and abiding love for his partner. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer proclaiming that his love is crazy, but it’s the only thing that keeps him sane.

The song is a classic example of the soulful ballads that were popular in the 1970s, with its tender melodies and emotive vocals making it a standout of the era. It has become a beloved classic of classic rock, and remains a favorite of fans of that genre.

Overall, “Crazy Love” is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of romantic love. Its gentle rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and emotive melodies make it a perfect song for those seeking to express their deepest feelings of love and devotion, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre.

32. Moonlight Feels Right – Starbuck

“Moonlight Feels Right” by Starbuck is a classic rock song that features a catchy and upbeat melody, with an iconic xylophone riff that runs throughout the track. The song opens with a percussive intro, setting the tone for the lively and joyful mood that follows.

The lyrics are playful and romantic, with the singer expressing his excitement and passion for his partner. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer proclaiming that the moonlight feels right when he’s with his lover, and that he’s never felt this way before.

The song is a classic example of the upbeat rock that was popular in the 1970s, with its catchy melodies and optimistic lyrics making it a standout of the era. It has become a beloved classic of classic rock, and remains a favorite of fans of that genre.

Overall, “Moonlight Feels Right” is a fun and uplifting classic rock song that captures the joy and excitement of love. Its catchy rhythms, playful lyrics, and upbeat melody make it a perfect song for those seeking to celebrate the joy of a new relationship, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre.

33. Escape (The Pina Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes

“Escape” by Rupert Holmes, also known as “The Piña Colada Song,” is a classic pop song that features a catchy melody and whimsical lyrics. The song opens with a bouncy keyboard riff, setting the tone for the lighthearted and playful mood that follows.

The lyrics are playful and romantic, with the singer expressing his boredom and dissatisfaction with his current relationship, and his desire to find someone new. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer proclaiming that he wants to escape with someone who shares his love of piña coladas and getting caught in the rain.

The song is a classic example of the upbeat pop that was popular in the 1970s, with its catchy melodies and tongue-in-cheek lyrics making it a standout of the era. It has become a beloved classic of pop music, and remains a favorite of fans of that genre.

Overall, “Escape” is a fun and playful pop song that captures the whimsy and humor of love. Its catchy rhythms, clever lyrics, and upbeat melody make it a perfect song for those seeking to enjoy a lighthearted and carefree moment, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre.

34. This is It – Kenny Loggins

“This is It” by Kenny Loggins is a classic rock song that features a powerful and soulful melody, with strong vocals and emotive lyrics. The song opens with a grandiose and cinematic intro, setting the tone for the epic and uplifting mood that follows.

The lyrics are inspirational and hopeful, with the singer encouraging his listeners to seize the day and make the most of their lives. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer proclaiming that “this is it” – the moment when they have to take charge and make a difference.

The song is a classic example of the uplifting and motivational rock that was popular in the 1970s, with its soaring melodies and inspirational lyrics making it a standout of the era. It has become a beloved classic of classic rock, and remains a favorite of fans of that genre.

Overall, “This is It” is an inspiring and powerful rock anthem that captures the spirit of seizing the moment and making the most of one’s life. Its grandiose melodies, emotive lyrics, and powerful vocals make it a perfect song for those seeking to feel uplifted and motivated, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre.

35. Hey Nineteen – Steely Dan

“Hey Nineteen” by Steely Dan is a classic rock song that features a smooth and jazzy melody, with sophisticated instrumentation and poetic lyrics. The song opens with a sultry guitar riff, setting the tone for the suave and sophisticated mood that follows.

The lyrics are poetic and reflective, with the singer reminiscing about his younger days and the passage of time. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer addressing a younger woman and marveling at the age difference between them, wondering if she even knows who Aretha Franklin is.

The song is a classic example of the sophisticated and jazzy rock that was popular in the 1970s, with its smooth melodies and poetic lyrics making it a standout of the era. It has become a beloved classic of classic rock, and remains a favorite of fans of that genre.

Overall, “Hey Nineteen” is a suave and reflective rock song that captures the nostalgia and bittersweetness of growing older. Its jazzy instrumentation, poetic lyrics, and smooth melodies make it a perfect song for those seeking to reflect on the passage of time and the changing nature of relationships, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre.

36. Lonely Boy – Andrew Gold

“Lonely Boy” by Andrew Gold is a classic rock song that features a catchy and upbeat melody, with memorable hooks and lyrics that are both playful and poignant. The song opens with a bouncy piano riff, setting the tone for the lighthearted and cheerful mood that follows.

The lyrics tell the story of a young man who is trying to find his place in the world, with his struggles and loneliness reflected in the catchy chorus that has become one of the song’s most memorable hooks. The song is characterized by Gold’s distinct and emotive vocals, which convey a sense of both vulnerability and resilience.

“Lonely Boy” is a classic example of the upbeat and hook-laden rock that was popular in the 1970s, with its infectious melody and memorable lyrics making it a standout of the era. It has become a beloved classic of classic rock, and remains a favorite of fans of that genre.

Overall, “Lonely Boy” is a playful and poignant rock song that captures the struggles and aspirations of youth. Its catchy melody, memorable hooks, and emotive vocals make it a perfect song for those seeking to embrace their inner loner and find the strength to keep going, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre.

April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.

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The Best Yacht Rock Songs (That Don't Suck)

Often dissed as slick, overly-produced music made by white men in the '70s, Yacht Rock actually resulted in some amazing pop music beyond Christopher Cross' "Sailing." Here are tracks that define the genre's rich, jazzy textures and irresistible melodies.

12 Songs, 59 minutes

More By Rolling Stone

Featured artists, the doobie brothers, gerry rafferty, daryl hall & john oates, blues image, donald fagen, select a country or region, africa, middle east, and india.

• Côte d’Ivoire
• Congo, The Democratic Republic Of The
• Guinea-Bissau
• Niger (English)
• Congo, Republic of
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• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• Tanzania, United Republic Of
• Turkmenistan
• United Arab Emirates

Asia Pacific

• Indonesia (English)
• Lao People's Democratic Republic
• Malaysia (English)
• Micronesia, Federated States of
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Solomon Islands
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• France (Français)
• Deutschland
• Luxembourg (English)
• Moldova, Republic Of
• North Macedonia
• Portugal (Português)
• Türkiye (English)
• United Kingdom

Latin America and the Caribbean

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina (Español)
• Bolivia (Español)
• Virgin Islands, British
• Cayman Islands
• Chile (Español)
• Colombia (Español)
• Costa Rica (Español)
• República Dominicana
• Ecuador (Español)
• El Salvador (Español)
• Guatemala (Español)
• Honduras (Español)
• Nicaragua (Español)
• Paraguay (Español)
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
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• Uruguay (English)
• Venezuela (Español)

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• Canada (English)
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Joey’s Top 10s: Top 10 Yacht Rock Songs

Yacht Rock has nice, summery feel to warm the winter months

KESTRA ENGSTROM

Joey counts down his top ten songs in the niche sub-genre Yacht Rock.

JOEY FRANKLIN November 10, 2022

This list will be slightly different from the rest of my Top 10s, examining a sub-genre of music rather than an artist’s band’s catalog. Like always, I will try to keep this list fairly fresh and try to not include songs that I have already touched on in previous articles.

Yacht Rock is loosely defined as an easy-listening genre of music, songs that would work well out on a boat on a nice summer night. While this article might not be super timely with the incoming snow, we can all turn on the fireplace and place some nice Yacht Rock to remind us of the summer months.

• “How Long” by JD Souther

JD Souther wrote songs with the Eagles in the 70s, and this song has been more popularly covered by the legendary band, but I really like Souther’s version of the song. It’s nice and laidback and paints a pretty fun picture

• “Sail on Sailor” by The Beach Boys

This is a much lesser-known song by The Beach Boys, but it is a really fun song, telling the story of a captain at sea and all the strife and struggles he has to go through. It is chock full of those classic Beach Boys harmonies that made the band famous.

• “Kiss You All Over” by Exile

This song is some classic Yacht Rock. It is a very stripped-down song, with a few guitar parts, vocals and a very simple drum track.

The guitar riff on this song is awesome and actually sounds almost identical to John Mayer’s “All I Want Is To Be With You” (Mayer’s song came out much later than Exile’s song).

• “Lido Shuffle” by Boz Scaggs

“Lido whoaaaaaa … ” This song is a classic about a man named Lido robbing a bank, but it is just about the most fun you can have listening to a song about a bank robbery. The groove is just impeccable.

• “Saturday in the Park” by Chicago

This is a pretty iconic song, starting out with the piano before the legendary Chicago horn section comes in. It is about somebody observing a park on the Fourth of July, and overall is really a wholesome, feel-good song.

5 “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)” by Christopher Cross

What would you do if you got caught between the moon and New York City? Christopher Cross offers a pretty simple solution in this song: fall in love.

This is a stereotypical Yacht Rock song, heavy on the horn section while telling a story about love.

• “Southern Cross” by Crosby, Stills & Nash

This song evokes the feeling of sitting on a beach during the summer and just taking it easy. Another Yacht song about love, it tells a story that is a very relaxing listen everyone should hear.

• “Moonlight Feels Right” by Starbuck

This song features some really cool percussion, like a marimba or glockenspiel, which adds a fun tropical feel. It is a romantic song about hanging out with someone special under the moonlight.

• “Right Down the Line” by Gerry Rafferty

From the same artist as the legendary “Baker Street,” this song is one of the best that Yacht Rock has to offer, with a sultry guitar floating around the back of the song.

“Right Down the Line” epitomizes the term “easy listening — ” it is nice and calm. It is a really sweet song about confessing your love for someone.

• “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” by England Dan and John Ford Coley

This song is about rekindling a love from the past, starting with a simple phone call to somebody that you have not talked to in a while, and seeing if they would want to get together and take a walk in a park or a drive on the beach. It also has the single coolest lyric in music history: “There’s a warm wind blowing the stars around.”

• Joey's Top 10s

Joey Franklin is a junior majoring in communications from Fairwood, Washington.

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Tupac's Five Most Iconic Songs

T upac Shakur, better known by his stage name 2Pac, was a well-known rapper and significant player in the music business. His captivating character, impactful melodies, and commitment to addressing social issues left a lasting imprint on the industry. While it's hard to narrow down Tupac's vast discography to just five standout tracks, let's take a closer look at five of his biggest hits that continue to have significant fan bases and bear witness to his lasting influence.

"Dear Mama"

One of Tupac's most iconic and emotional songs, "Dear Mama," is a heartfelt tribute to his mother and all mothers worldwide. Released in 1995, this track showcases Tupac's vulnerability and gratitude as he expresses love and appreciation for the sacrifices his mother made. The song's deeply personal lyrics and soulful melody make it an enduring anthem that resonates with listeners profoundly.

"Changes" is a powerful and socially conscious song that addresses the persistent issues of inequality and racism. Released in 1998, it highlights Tupac's ability to fuse thought-provoking lyrics with infectious beats. The song's message of unity and the need for societal change remains relevant today, making it an enduring testament to Tupac's ability to articulate and shed light on pressing issues.

"California Love"

A collaboration with Dr. Dre, "California Love" remains one of Tupac's most recognizable and energetic tracks. Released in 1995, this song captured the essence of West Coast hip-hop and became an instant hit. It's infectious hooks and captivating production continue to make it a crowd favorite and a symbol of Tupac's musical versatility.

"Keep Ya Head Up"

"Keep Ya Head Up" exemplifies Tupac's commitment to addressing the struggles faced by women and promoting unity within the community. Released in 1993, the song delivers a powerful message of empowerment and resilience, encouraging listeners to persevere through adversity. Its uplifting lyrics and soulful melody demonstrate Tupac's ability to inspire and instill hope through his music.

"Hail Mary"

Released posthumously in 1997, "Hail Mary" stands as a testament to Tupac's lyrical prowess and artistic depth. The track delves into themes of mortality, spirituality, and the struggles of life. It's haunting production and introspective lyrics create a somber yet captivating atmosphere, leaving a lasting impact on listeners.:

Tupac Shakur's legacy as a pioneering artist and cultural icon remains unparalleled. While it is challenging to select only five of his best songs, "Dear Mama," "Changes," "California Love," "Keep Ya Head Up," and "Hail Mary" stand as remarkable examples of Tupac's musical genius. These tracks encapsulate his ability to convey raw emotions, address societal issues, and connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. Tupac's timeless songs continue to inspire, provoke thought, and resonate with new generations, ensuring that his legacy as an influential figure in the music world will endure for years to come.

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